McDonald’s has confirmed that no E. coli was detected in the beef patties used in its Quarter Pounders, linked to a recent E. coli outbreak, according to a company spokesperson on Sunday. This announcement follows tests conducted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, which found the patties clear of contamination.
In a turn of events, the department will not pursue additional testing on these beef patties, effectively ruling them out as the source of the outbreak. Instead, investigations suggest that the contamination is most likely associated with slivered onions sourced from Taylor Farms Colorado Springs, as reported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Following the outbreak’s emergence, McDonald’s has ceased sourcing slivered onions from Taylor Farms indefinitely, just days after removing these onions from their supply chain. The onions had been distributed in various states, including Colorado, Kansas, and Wyoming, and were also sold at airports, potentially explaining the spread of illnesses across state lines.
The spokesperson expressed confidence in securing a fresh supply of beef patties for distribution, with plans to restore availability of Quarter Pounders in restaurants this week. However, all 900 restaurants relying on Taylor Farms for onion supplies will continue offering Quarter Pounders without onions temporarily.
The E. coli outbreak is attributed to strain O157
, known for producing toxins that can severely damage the small intestine. The outbreak first gained attention on Tuesday when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an investigation into multiple E. coli cases linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. The CDC highlighted that the initial case was recorded on September 27, and state health officials noted a significant rise in E. coli cases on October 10, leading to the CDC’s investigation starting on October 15.
The investigation quickly narrowed down to slivered onions. By Wednesday, distributor U.S. Foods announced a recall of four raw onion products from Taylor Farms due to potential E. coli contamination, advising customers, including restaurants, to cease usage and dispose of affected products immediately. This prompted other chains in Colorado, including Taco Bell and Illegal Pete’s, to remove onions from their menus as a precautionary measure.
Despite no confirmed cases of E. coli linked to Pizza Hut or KFC, Yum! Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, reported that selected locations have also taken onions off their menus.
As the FDA continues its investigation into Taylor Farms as a possible source of the E. coli outbreak, officials emphasize they are exploring all potential sources of contamination. As of Friday, the CDC reported that 75 individuals across 13 states had contracted the E. coli strain, with one reported fatality. Of the infected, 22 individuals have been hospitalized, and two have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe condition that can lead to permanent kidney damage or death.
Multiple lawsuits have already been filed against McDonald’s by individuals claiming they fell ill after dining at the restaurant, further complicating the situation for the fast-food giant.
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