The outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder products has led to one death and hospitalized 10 others, according to an announcement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday. 49 cases have been identified in 10 states, most of them in Colorado and Nebraska, from September 27 to October 11.
The CDC reported that it is not yet known which specific food component in the hamburger may be contaminated with E. coli. McDonald’s has stopped using fresh onion slices and quarter pound beef patties in some states while the investigation into the source of the E. coli bacteria continues.
The CDC stated that quarter pound beef patties are only used in Quarter Pounders in McDonald’s stores, while fresh onion slices are “primarily” used by Quarter Pounder restaurants and are not included in other items. It is said that “most people in this outbreak” consumed Quarter Pounders, although the exact percentage of those who got sick who consumed this specific item on the menu is not clear.
While the diseases identified so far range from September 27 to October 11, there is a good chance for more cases to exist, as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if the affected person is part of a specific outbreak. The CDC also indicates that the actual number of patients will be lower than reported, as many people recover without needing medical care and are never tested.
The CDC included a chart in their news release showing when cases were reported.
The Public Health Agency also included a map showing the geographical locations where cases have occurred. Cases have been reported in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Oregon, Montana, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin.
Several significant food recalls have occurred in the United States in recent months, including the recall of 10 million pounds of meat and poultry from BrucePAC, which produces chicken for various brands and grocery stores nationwide, due to concerns about Listeria contamination.
The major recall of frozen waffle sandwiches was expanded last week due to Listeria concerns on Tuesday, with fears that waffles and other baked goods may be affected, according to the Associated Press. The recent recalls also affected products carried by major brands that American consumers regularly rely on, including major grocery retailers such as Albertson’s, Aldi, Dollar General, Kroger, Publix, Target, Walmart, and others.
McDonald’s stock fell by 9% in after-hours trading, according to CNBC. The fast-food giant did not immediately respond to questions sent via email on Tuesday. Gizmodo will update this post if we hear a response.
This is a developing news story and will be updated.
