An outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has killed one person and hospitalized 10, according to an announcement Tuesday from the US Centers for Disease Control. 49 cases were identified in 10 states, mostly in Colorado and Nebraska, from Sept. 27 to Oct. 11.
The CDC reports that it is not yet known which specific food ingredient in the hamburgers may have been contaminated with E. coli. McDonald’s has reportedly stopped using grilled onions and beef patties in some states while the investigation into the source of E. coli.
The CDC notes that quarter pound beef patties are only used in Quarter Pounders at McDonald’s stores, while grilled onions are “predominantly” used in restaurant Quarter Pounders and are not included in other items. “The majority of people in this outbreak” reportedly ate Quarter Pounders, though it’s unclear what percentage of those who got sick ate that menu item.
Although the diseases identified so far date from Sept. 27 to Oct. 11, there will likely be more, as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of a particular outbreak. The CDC also notes that the actual number of sick people is likely to be lower given the fact that many people recover without the need for health care and are never tested.
The CDC included a graph in its news release showing when people got sick.
The health center also includes a map showing where cases have been identified geographically. Cases have been reported in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Oregon, Montana, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin.
A number of disturbing food recalls have occurred in the US in recent months, including 10 million pounds of meat and poultry from BrucePAC, which produces chicken for many different brands and grocery stores across the country, recalled for listeria concerns.
A major recall of frozen waffles last week over listea concerns was extended Tuesday over fears that pancakes and other toaster products could be affected, according to the Associated Press. The latest recall also affected products carried by major brands that US consumers rely on, including major grocery stores such as Albertson’s, Aldi, Dollar General, Kroger, Publix, Target, Walmart, among others.
McDonald’s stock price fell 9% in after-hours trading, according to CNBC. The fast food giant did not immediately respond to emailed questions on Tuesday. Gizmodo will update this post when we hear back.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.
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