Over 160,000 Pounds Recalled for E. Coli Contamination in the U.S.

 Massive Ground Beef Recall: Over 160,000 Pounds Recalled for E. Coli Contamination in the U.S.

Wolverine Packing Co. has recalled approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products across the United States due to potential E. coli contamination, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The announcement, made Thursday, highlights a significant public health concern affecting restaurant supply chains nationwide.

Wolverine Packing Co. / Image: wolverinepacking.com

Details of the Contamination

The issue came to light after the Minnesota Department of Agriculture reported a cluster of illnesses linked to ground beef consumption. To date, 15 individuals have fallen ill, with symptoms appearing between November 2 and November 10, 2024. Further investigation by FSIS, in collaboration with Minnesota state health officials, confirmed the presence of E. coli in a sample of ground beef.

The recalled products include fresh items marked with a "use-by" date of November 14, 2024, and frozen products produced on October 22, 2024. All affected items bear the establishment number "EST. 2574B" within the USDA mark of inspection.

What You Need to Know

The recalled products were distributed to restaurants nationwide. FSIS advises establishments to thoroughly inspect refrigerators and freezers, discard any affected products, and avoid serving or consuming these items.

The full list of recalled products, along with their labels, is available onthe FSIS website.

Health Risks of E. Coli

E-coli / Image: UCSF Health

E. coli is a dangerous bacterium that can cause severe symptoms, including dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, typically appearing 3–4 days after exposure. While most people recover within a week, some may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure.

HUS is most common among children and older adults and is characterized by symptoms such as pallor, easy bruising, and decreased urine output. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Company Response

Wolverine Packing Co., headquartered in Detroit's Eastern Market area, has stated it is cooperating fully with USDA and FSIS officials during the investigation. Founded in 1937, the company offers over 4,000 protein products, including meat and seafood. This is not the company’s first recall—back in 2014, it recalled 1.8 million pounds of ground beef following an E. coli outbreak that affected 11 individuals in four states.

What to Do if Concerned

Consumers and restaurant operators should contact their healthcare providers if they suspect exposure to E. coli or experience related symptoms. The FSIS recommends following food safety practices, such as cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F, to minimize risks.

For more information, visit the FSIS website or contact their hotline for food safety concerns.