E. coli Outbreak: McDonald’s Quarter Pounders & Taylor Farms Onion Recall – CDC Update

An outbreak of E. Coli O157:H7 infections linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has expanded to 13 states, with 75 confirmed cases reported as of October 25, 2024. Health officials are continuing to investigate the source of the contamination, focusing on fresh slivered onions and beef patties used in the popular burger.

What We Know About the Outbreak

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collaborating on the investigation. The first illnesses began appearing around September 27, 2024, with the most recent confirmed illness onset date being October 10, 2024. Individuals affected range in age from 18 to 88 years old.

Of the 42 people interviewed by investigators, all reported consuming food at McDonald’s prior to becoming ill, and the majority specifically recalled eating a Quarter Pounder. No other food chains or retailers have been linked to the outbreak at this time.

The outbreak has resulted in 22 hospitalizations, including one death in Colorado. Two individuals have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication of E. Coli infection that can lead to kidney failure. One of these HUS cases occurred in a child, and a new case has been identified in an adult.

The Role of Taylor Farms and the Onion Recall

The investigation has identified Taylor Farms, a supplier of slivered onions to affected McDonald’s locations, as a likely source of the contamination. On October 22, 2024, Taylor Farms initiated a voluntary recall of yellow onions distributed to McDonald’s and other food service customers. Affected stores were directly contacted and asked to remove the recalled product.

McDonald’s has temporarily stopped using the recalled onions from Taylor Farms in restaurants within the affected states, which include Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and portions of Iowa, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Utah. McDonald’s has since reintroduced slivered onions from a different supplier in locations where the recalled onions were previously used.

Recalled onions were also directly distributed to food service customers in Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming.

Symptoms of E. Coli Infection

E. Coli O157:H7 infections typically cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after exposure to the bacteria and typically resolve within 5 to 7 days. However, some individuals can develop serious complications, including HUS, which can lead to kidney failure, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems.

What Consider Do

If you have experienced these symptoms after eating a Quarter Pounder at McDonald’s, particularly if you live in one of the affected states, it is crucial to seek medical attention and inform your healthcare provider about your potential exposure.

Food service customers should not sell or serve the recalled Taylor Farms yellow onions and should follow FDA guidance on safe handling and cleaning procedures to prevent cross-contamination. This includes thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the recalled product.

Current Status and Risk Assessment

While the investigation is ongoing, the CDC currently believes the risk to the public is very low due to the actions taken by McDonald’s and Taylor Farms. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of E. Coli infection to local health authorities.

The FDA continues to work closely with Taylor Farms and other implicated farms to identify the source of the contamination and prevent further outbreaks. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

the true number of illnesses related to this outbreak is likely higher than reported, as many cases may go undiagnosed or unreported.