The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for a popular ground beef brand. Officials warn that a batch of Organic Rancher Ground Beef, 85% Lean, 15% Fat may be contaminated with E. coli, a bacterium that can cause severe illness. Although the product is no longer on store shelves, consumers might still have it at home.
Distribution and Packaging Information
The affected ground beef was shipped to distributors in Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, and Maryland. From there, it was sent to Whole Foods Market stores nationwide. The product comes in one-pound vacuum-packed bags labeled with a “use or freeze by” date of Thursday, June 19 or Friday, June 20. Each package bears the establishment number “EST. 4027” inside the USDA inspection mark.
Health Risks of E. coli Contamination
No illnesses have been reported so far. However, E. coli can cause serious symptoms, including dehydration, abdominal cramps, and bloody diarrhea. Young children and older adults are at higher risk for life-threatening complications.
Officials say the contamination was discovered after the manufacturer’s safety screening tests came back positive. As soon as they learned of the results, they alerted the FSIS.
Recommendations for Consumers
The FSIS urges anyone who purchased this ground beef to check their home refrigerators and freezers. Consumers who find the product should not eat it. Instead, they should either discard it safely or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
Additionally, the USDA reminds all consumers that ground beef must be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 °F. Using a food thermometer is the only reliable way to confirm that harmful bacteria have been destroyed and the meat is safe to eat.
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