March 2, 2007: Tyson Ground Beef Recall Due to E. coli Risk

A voluntary recall of 16,743 pounds of ground beef has been announced by Tyson Fresh Meats, a unit of Tyson Foods Inc. According to the USDA, the beef may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

Routine microbiological sampling by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) resulted in discovery of the contamination. The ground beef in question was produced on February 16, 2007. Boxes containing six, 10-pound chubs and marked “round, coarse ground beef, 85/15” were shipped to distributors in Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Washington. Labels on the boxes had the establishment number “Est. 9268” and a “best before” date of “03/08/07.”

Initial symptoms of E.coli O157:H7 infection include severe abdominal cramps and watery diarrhea. The diarrhea may become bloody and can lead to dehydration. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all. There is usually little or no fever. Symptoms generally resolve in 5-10 days, but serious complications may ensue. Children and the elderly are at greatest risk of developing complications.

Individuals who have questions about the recall should contact Tyson’s Consumer Hotline at (800) 233-6332, weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Central Time.

To view the complete USDA FSIS press release about the recall, visit http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_014_2007_Release/index.asp.

For more information about E. coli food poisoning, visit the pages of this blog and the website www.foodpoisoning.com.

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