The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Wednesday that fresh, slivered onions served on McDonald’s menu items are the likely source of a recent E. coli outbreak in the United States.
As of Wednesday, a total of 90 cases have been reported across 13 states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Wisconsin, Washington, and Michigan. Twenty-seven individuals have been hospitalized, and one death has been confirmed.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and McDonald’s have identified Taylor Farms as the supplier for the affected locations. In response, Taylor Farms has recalled several batches of yellow onions produced at its Colorado facility. An onion grower in Washington state is also under investigation.
While additional illnesses have been reported, the CDC stated that these cases originated before McDonald’s and Taylor Farms removed the onions from food service locations. Due to the actions taken, the CDC believes the current risk to the public is very low.
McDonald’s announced it would resume selling Quarter Pounder burgers this week after temporarily removing the item from menus at impacted restaurants. CEO Chris Kempczinski expressed confidence in the safety of dining at McDonald’s and apologized to customers for the inconvenience.
The FDA noted that symptoms of E. coli infection can appear anywhere from a few days to up to nine days after consuming contaminated food. E. coli bacteria are commonly found in the environment, foods, water, and the intestines of people and animals. While most strains are harmless and part of a healthy intestinal tract, some can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis.
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CDC: Onions served at McDonald's likely source of E. coli outbreak
cgtn.com
