The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a food safety alert on Tuesday concerning an E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. So far, at least 49 illnesses have been reported in 10 states, including one death of an older adult. Ten individuals have been hospitalized, including a child suffering from hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious complication related to E. coli. Most cases have been reported in Colorado and Nebraska, where many patients consumed Quarter Pounder sandwiches.
The CDC describes the investigation as “fast-moving” and indicates that slivered onions are a likely source of contamination, according to data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In response, McDonald’s has halted the use of these onions and the quarter-pound beef patties in several states while the investigation continues. The beef patties are exclusively used for Quarter Pounders, and the slivered onions are primarily for this menu item.
In a statement, McDonald’s noted that the initial findings linked the onions to a single supplier serving three distribution centers. The company is working closely with suppliers to restore the supply of Quarter Pounders in the coming weeks, though the timing will vary by location. All other menu items, including other beef products, remain available.
The FDA reported that McDonald’s has removed slivered onions and quarter-pound patties from locations in Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. In other states, Quarter Pounders may not be available.
The CDC warns that the outbreak could extend beyond these states. Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, usually starting three to four days after exposure. Most people recover within a week, but some may develop serious kidney issues requiring hospitalization.
Anyone who becomes ill after consuming a Quarter Pounder should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about what they ate. McDonald’s reiterated its commitment to customer safety, stating that serving customers safely is its top priority and that it will continue to cooperate with the CDC during the investigation.
Following the outbreak news, McDonald’s stock price fell sharply in after-hours trading.
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