E. Coli O157:H7 Prompts Ground Beef Recall
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A voluntary recall of approximately 6,152 pounds of ground beef has been announced by the International Meat Company following the discovery of E. coli O157:H7 during routine FSIS product sampling.
The ground beef products affected by the recall were processed by the company (located in Chicago, Illinois) between June 17, 2009 and June 19, 2009. In turn, the products were shipped to distributors and restaurants throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
The specific products subject to recall include:
- 5-pound, plastic-lined boxes of "International Meat Co., PURVEYOR OF FINE MEATS TO HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS, BEEF PATTIES." Each box bears the establishment number "EST. 22080" inside the USDA mark of inspection and identifying package codes of "061709," "061809" or "061909."
- "5- and 10-pound bags of bulk "International Meat Co., BEEF PATTIE MIX." Each bag bears the establishment number "EST. 22080" inside the USDA mark of inspection and identifying package codes of "061709," "061809" or "061909."
- "10-pound bags of "International Meat Co., GROUND BEEF." Each box bears the establishment number "EST. 22080" inside the USDA mark of inspection and identifying package codes of "061709," "061809" or "061909."
- "10-pound bags of "Packed For, Purely Gourmet & Organic, Ground Beef." Each box bears the establishment number "EST. 22080" inside the USDA mark of inspection and identifying package codes of "061709," "061809" or "061909."
The problem was discovered through routine FSIS microbiological sampling. FSIS has confirmed, as well, that have not been any illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. FSIS also reminds consumers that thoroughly cooking raw beef products to an internal temperature of 160 degrees will destroy any pathogens that may be present, and will render the products safe.
