The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that slivered onions served on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers are the likely source of a recent E. coli outbreak. This outbreak has resulted in 90 reported cases, including 15 newly identified infections, and has led to one death. The CDC reassured the public that the current risk is considered “very low” due to prompt actions taken by McDonald’s and its supplier, Taylor Farms.
So far, 27 individuals have been hospitalized due to the outbreak. The CDC noted that while new cases continue to emerge, they occurred before the onions were removed from food service locations. Most of those affected reported consuming Quarter Pounders, which are topped with slivered onions, prior to becoming ill.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s has removed slivered onions and beef patties from their menus while they work to identify the source of the contamination. The fast-food chain plans to reintroduce the Quarter Pounders without onions once it is safe to do so.
Other fast-food chains, including Burger King and Yum! Brands’ Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and KFC, have also decided to remove slivered onions from their menus indefinitely as a precautionary measure.
The CDC has identified Taylor Farms’ yellow onions as the likely cause of the outbreak. These onions have since been recalled. Food service operators have been instructed to stop selling these recalled onions and to dispose of any remaining stock. It is important to note that these onions were distributed exclusively to restaurants and are not expected to have reached grocery stores.
As the investigation continues, the CDC urges anyone experiencing symptoms of E. coli—such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration—to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
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