Nationwide Alert Has Been Issued Over Ground Beef Contaminated With E. Coli

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a public health alert on April 20 for ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. Coli.

Greater Omaha Packing Co., Inc. reported the problem after it discovered that the company inadvertently distributed ground beef that was found to be contaminated with E. coli to retail and food service locations nationwide. None of the contaminated ground beef is available for purchase by the public; however, it may still be in consumers’ refrigerators and freezers. 

The contaminated ground beef has a freeze/use-by date of April 28, 2024, a packaging date of “032824,” and an establishment number “EST 960A” inside the USDA mark of inspection. Images of the label on the contaminated products can be found here, and the full list of products, including the description, product label, lot code, and case code can be seen in the below image.

E. coli is a bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever. It can be potentially deadly to young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. There have been no confirmed reports of illnesses linked to the contaminated ground beef. If you suspect symptoms of E. coli, you should seek immediate medical attention.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that E. coli can be killed by cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F, measured with a thermometer. However, if you have any of the contaminated ground beef, you should not consume it, even if cooked to the proper temperature.

What To Do If You Have the Recalled Product at Home

If you have contaminated ground beef at home, you should not eat it. You should dispose of it or report it to the place of purchase for a full refund. For questions or concerns, you can reach out to Gina Adami, a representative of Greater Omaha Packing Co., Inc. at (402)575-4702 or [email protected].