A recent alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that a McDonald’s sandwich is linked to an E. coli outbreak in the United States. The bacteria, known for causing severe gastrointestinal issues, has been detected in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwiches. As of now, the CDC has reported 49 cases across 10 states, resulting in 10 hospitalizations and one death.
Most illnesses have been noted in western and Midwestern states, prompting McDonald’s to cooperate with investigators to identify the source of the contamination.
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The CDC indicated that ingredients from the affected burgers have been removed from sale in several states, particularly fresh slivered onions and quarter-pound beef patties. Investigators suspect that the slivered onions are likely the source of contamination and are checking whether these onions were supplied to other businesses.
The first reported case occurred on September 27, with affected individuals ranging in age from 13 to 88. Among the hospitalized patients, one developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. Cases have emerged in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s shares dropped by approximately 9% on the New York Stock Exchange. The company stated that a preliminary investigation suggested that a specific supplier linked to slivered onions used in the Quarter Pounder could be responsible.
Consequently, McDonald’s has ordered local restaurants to stop using this product and has halted shipments of slivered onions to affected regions, temporarily removing the sandwich from menus in several states.
McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger emphasized their commitment to food safety, assuring customers that they will take necessary actions. E. coli bacteria, while commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, can produce harmful toxins leading to symptoms such as severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms typically appear a few days after exposure.
This incident is not isolated; in 2022, six children in Alabama were also affected by an E. coli outbreak linked to chicken McNuggets, leading to hospitalizations and health violations at the affected restaurant.
