McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Linked to E. Coli Outbreak, CDC Says

McDonald's Quarter Pounders Linked to E. Coli Outbreak, CDC Says

A deadly E. coli outbreak reportedly linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has claimed one life and sickened dozens across multiple states, prompting a swift investigation by health authorities.

At a Glance

  • 1 death and 49 illnesses have been reported across 10 states.
  • The outbreak appears to be linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders consumed between September 27 and October 11
  • 10 hospitalizations, including one child with kidney complications, have been reported.
  • The CDC, FDA, and USDA are investigating; initial focus on slivered onions from a single supplier.
  • McDonald’s is removing potentially contaminated ingredients and cooperating with authorities.

Deadly Outbreak Strikes Fast Food Giant

An E. coli outbreak officials believe is linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has resulted in one death and dozens of illnesses across 10 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating 49 reported cases, with the majority concentrated in Colorado and Nebraska. The outbreak has led to 10 hospitalizations, including one child who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney condition.

The affected states include Oregon, Utah, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. Health officials have linked the outbreak to Quarter Pounders consumed between September 27 and October 11, 2024. Symptoms reported include high fever, diarrhea, severe vomiting, and dehydration.

Swift Response and Ongoing Investigation

McDonald’s has taken immediate action in response to the outbreak. The company has removed ingredients for the Quarter Pounders from some locations and is actively investigating the source of contamination. Initial findings suggest that the outbreak may be linked to slivered onions from a single supplier.

The CDC began its investigation on October 15, following an unusual increase in E. coli cases reported in Colorado on October 10. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) are also involved in the investigation. FSIS is conducting traceback on hamburger patties to determine if ground beef could be a source of contamination.

E. coli: A Dangerous Pathogen

The strain involved in this outbreak, E. coli O157:H7, is particularly dangerous and can cause severe illness, especially in young children. It’s crucial for consumers to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if they experience severe E. coli symptoms after consuming McDonald’s Quarter Pounders.

E. coli outbreaks often result from poor sanitation practices or contamination from animal farms. This incident adds to a series of recent food safety concerns, including a recall of 10 million pounds of BrucePac meat and poultry earlier this month due to potential listeria contamination.

Impact on McDonald’s and Consumer Trust

The outbreak had immediate consequences for McDonald’s, with the company’s stock dropping 10% in after-hours trading following the news. This incident comes at a challenging time for the fast-food giant, which has already seen a decline in global same-store sales this year.

“Serving customers safely in every single restaurant, each and every day, is our top priority and something we will never compromise on,” Cesar Piña, McDonald’s North America chief supply chain officer said.

As the investigation continues, McDonald’s is working closely with health authorities to address the issue and ensure customer safety. The company has emphasized its commitment to food safety and is taking necessary precautions to prevent further incidents. Consumers are advised to stay informed about the ongoing investigation and to seek medical attention if they experience severe symptoms after consuming McDonald’s products.

Sources

  1. McDonald’s stock sinks after CDC reports E. coli outbreak linked to Quarter Pounder
  2. McDonald’s Quarter Pounders linked to ‘severe’ E. coli outbreak across states, CDC says
  3. 1 dead, dozens sickened in E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders