An outbreak of E. coli food poisoning linked to onions served on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has sickened at least 104 people, with 34 hospitalized. The outbreak has been reported in 14 states, with one death in Colorado and four cases of a potentially life-threatening kidney disease complication. Most cases were reported in Colorado, followed by other states such as Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Missouri, Utah, and others.
Illnesses occurred between September 12 and October 21, with many of those affected reporting eating McDonald’s food while traveling. Slivered onions served on the Quarter Pounders were identified as the likely source of the outbreak, and California-based produce grower Taylor Farms recalled onions potentially linked to the outbreak. Tests by the FDA detected a type of E. coli bacteria in one sample of the onions that produces a dangerous toxin, but it did not match the strain affecting people who got sick. Quarter Pounders were temporarily removed from menus in several states during the early days of the outbreak.
McDonald’s officials have identified an alternate supplier for the 900 restaurants that temporarily stopped serving the burgers with onions, and the restaurants have resumed selling Quarter Pounders with slivered onions. The FDA stated that there does not appear to be a continued food safety concern related to this outbreak at McDonald’s restaurants. E. coli infections cause about 74,000 infections in the US annually, leading to more than 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths each year, according to the CDC.
Symptoms of E. coli infection can occur quickly, within a day or two of eating contaminated food, and typically include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea, as well as signs of dehydration such as little or no urination, increased thirst, and dizziness. The infection can lead to a serious kidney injury, especially in children under the age of 5. It is crucial for those affected, especially young children, to seek immediate medical attention if showing symptoms of E. coli poisoning.
The outbreak highlights the potential risks associated with foodborne illnesses and the importance of food safety measures in preventing such occurrences. Swift actions by health officials and food suppliers, such as recalls of potentially contaminated products, are essential in containing and addressing outbreaks. Consumers are also advised to take precautions when eating out or purchasing food products, especially if they are aware of ongoing food poisoning outbreaks. Public health agencies like the CDC play a crucial role in monitoring and responding to foodborne illness outbreaks to protect the health and safety of the public.
