Ground Beef Recalled Due to E Coli Contamination

Coal Valley, ILThe U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today that Valley Meats LLC, of Coal Valley, Ill. has recalled over 95,000 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

The problem was discovered through an epidemiological investigation of illnesses, the USDA said. On May 13, 2009, FSIS was informed by the Ohio Department of Health of a cluster of E. coli O157:H7 infections. Illnesses have been reported in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. The illnesses have been linked to consumption of the recalled ground beef.

E. coli O157:H7 is a deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to the bacteria. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician immediately.

The recalled ground beef products were produced on March 10, 2009 and distributed nationwide. Each recalled product bears the establishment number "EST. 5712" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The (2-1), (3-1), (4-1), (5-1) and (6-1) markings refer to the number of portions per pound.

The recalled brands include 3S, Grillmaster, J&B, Klub, Ultimate, Thick 'N Savory and numerous generic brands. Most of the recalls are for 10-pound cases of beef patties. The FDA has posted a list of recalled products.