Ground Beef Recall issued by USDA over E. Coli Contamination
A Recall of approximately 96,000 pounds of E. Coli tainted ground beef has been issued by the Manufacturer, Valley Meats of Coal Valley, Illinois and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection service.
Ground Beef Recall – What to Look For
The ground beef recall covers meat that has the establishment number “EST. 5712” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the packaging. The (2-1), (3-1), (4-1), (5-1) and (6-1) markings refer to the number of portions per pound. The ground beef products were produced on March 10 and distributed nationwide across the U.S.
The E. Coli problem was discovered through an epidemiological investigation of illnesses after a concentrated outbreak of the bacteria caused illness in a small geographical area in Ohio. So far, confirmed E. Coli cases have been found in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Illinois.
E. Coli Symptoms
E. Coli is a potentially deadly bacterium and the symptoms of infection are bloody diarrhea, dehydration and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. Children, seniors and people with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to food-borne illness.
If you or someone you know has purchased ground beef made by Valley Meats since May 10, or any packaged ground beef for that matter, check the inspection mark on the packaging for the information listed above.
If you or anyone you know has consumed ground beef products and are exhibiting any odd symptoms, especially the ones listed above, seek medical attention immediately and inform your physician of what you ate.
