The Colorado-based company Cargill Meat Solutions has recalled around 132,606 pounds of ground beef products due to an E. coli contamination. The company produced and packaged the meat on June 21 and sold it to many grocery stores including Publix, Safeway, and Target.
About E.Coli
E. coli is a bacteria that normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals. While most strains are harmless, the one found in recent patients, 0157: H7, is a specific strain that can cause serious illness. Symptoms of E. coli typically begin two to eight days after consuming the bacteria, although most patients become ill three or four days after consumption. These symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Most people recover in five to seven days. However, those most at risk include the very young, the elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Ground Beef Recall
After a previous recall involving the regional grocery chain Publix, the FDA found further lots of Cargill Meat Solutions are contaminated with E.coli. The FDA received most reports of illness from July 5 to 25. Now, the agency is recalling more ground beef. This time it involves grocery stories Meijer, Safeway, Sam’s Club and Target stores in California, Florida, and Iowa. However, more stores may have sold the contaminated meat.
The recall includes 3-pound, 10-pound and 20-pound packages of ground beef branded under Our Certified, Excel, Sterling Silver, Certified and Fire River Farms with a July 11 use or freeze by date. The full list of recalled items, including labels, is at the USDA website.
Previous Ground Beef Recall
The USDA began an investigation into Publix’s ground beef after 18 people, predominantly from Florida, became ill between July 5 and July 25. All consumed ground chuck products purchased at various Publix stores from around the state. The source of the contaminated beef is still undetermined. However, Publix has over 788 stores in Florida. There are 24 counties involved in the Publix ground beef recall.
Get Legal Help
E. coli are bacteria that can cause serious, sometimes fatal, infections in humans. The CDC estimates the bacteria causes 2,000 hospitalizations each year. Plus, 10% go on to develop more serious complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can cause kidney failure, damage to the central nervous system, and ultimately death.
This is why it is important to seek representation if you are a victim of an E. coli outbreak. An experienced attorney like those at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm can help you receive compensation for your losses. We have over 20 years representing injured consumers and will use every avenue to get you justice.