The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert after several people fell ill following the consumption of McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwiches. According to the CDC, one person has died, and 10 others have been hospitalized in connection with this outbreak.
While the exact cause of contamination hasn’t been confirmed, officials from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) believe that either the slivered onions or the beef patties used in the Quarter Pounders are likely responsible. In response, McDonald’s has temporarily stopped using these ingredients in several states, including Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming, among others, while the investigation continues.
The CDC reports that the beef patties in question are specifically used for Quarter Pounders, and the slivered onions are primarily used in this product. Other McDonald’s ingredients, like diced onions and different types of beef patties, have not been linked to the outbreak.
Understanding E. coli Infections
E. coli is a bacteria commonly found in the environment and the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, certain types can cause illness when ingested through contaminated food or water. It can also spread from person to person through poor hygiene.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear three to four days after exposure and include stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. Although most people recover within a week, serious complications can occur, particularly in vulnerable groups like young children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems.
In the McDonald’s outbreak, at least 10 people have been hospitalized, including a child who developed a severe complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can affect the kidneys. Unfortunately, one older individual has died. Most of the reported cases are in Colorado and Nebraska, but there are also reports of illnesses in states like Iowa, Montana, and Utah.
If you’ve recently eaten a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder and are experiencing severe symptoms such as a high fever, persistent diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, the CDC recommends contacting your doctor immediately.
A Quick Investigation
Outbreak investigations can take time, but the CDC has called this one “fast-moving.” The number of reported cases is expected to rise as health officials continue to trace and confirm links between the outbreak strain and human infections.
The first reported cases began between September 27 and October 11. However, as the investigation progresses, earlier cases may be discovered. The outbreak is expected to decline once the contaminated ingredients are removed from the food supply chain, though it requires thorough checks to ensure all sources are identified and stopped.
McDonald’s Response
McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger assured customers that it is safe to eat at McDonald’s. He explained that the company has likely removed any contaminated products from its supply chain. However, Quarter Pounders will be temporarily taken off the menu in some areas as the company adjusts its supply.
McDonald’s emphasizes that safety is their top priority. They have implemented several food safety measures, including regular employee handwashing and temperature checks, as well as cooking their Quarter Pounder patties to temperatures exceeding FDA guidelines.
Foodborne Illnesses on the Rise
According to CDC data, foodborne illnesses, including those caused by E. coli, have increased in recent years. In 2023, there were over 5 E. coli infections per 100,000 people in the US, which is 25% higher than five years ago. Other foodborne pathogens like Campylobacter and Listeria have also seen increases in infection rates.
For instance, Campylobacter, which often comes from undercooked poultry, has caused more than 19 infections per 100,000 people. Salmonella infections remain stable but continue to cause significant illness, with 14 cases per 100,000 people in 2023. Though Listeria is less common, it has been linked to several large outbreaks, including one involving Boar’s Head products that led to nine deaths.
As the investigation into the McDonald’s outbreak continues, food safety remains a critical concern for both health officials and businesses.
