E. Coli Outbreak Leads to Recall of McDonald’s Onion Supplier

Recently, Taylor Farms, the onion supplier for McDonald’s, has initiated a recall of its products, shortly following a CDC announcement regarding a potential E. coli outbreak associated with the fast-food chain.

On October 22, the CDC revealed findings from an ongoing investigation that suggested McDonald’s Quarter Pounder might be responsible for a total of 49 reported illnesses and one death spread across 10 different states in the United States.

In response to this alarming news, Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald’s, expressed his assurance that diners can continue to enjoy their meals at the restaurant. He also indicated that the investigation is focusing on two ingredients used in the Quarter Pounder.

On October 24, Taylor Farms decided to recall yellow onions supplied to McDonald’s, although no traces of E. coli had been detected in their products. The company clarified to NRN that this action was taken “out of an abundance of caution.”

“We are collaborating closely with the FDA and CDC throughout this ongoing investigation,” said Taylor Farms in their communication.

mcdonald's quarter pounder — Instagram: channelnewsasia

To date, one death and ten hospitalizations have been reported due to the E. coli outbreak traced back to McDonald’s.

In a public announcement made on October 22, McDonald’s stated that all restaurants in the affected states have been directed to remove the Quarter Pounder from their offerings and halt the distribution of all slivered onions in those areas.

The states that are currently affected include Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, along with parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

“Food safety is of the utmost importance to us, and this precautionary measure is the correct course of action. Restaurants impacted by this situation will receive a stock recovery notice today and should contact their field supply chain manager or distribution center for any inquiries,” they emphasized.

They assured customers that all other beef offerings, including the Big Mac, McDouble, and Double Cheeseburger, remain safe and available for purchase.

For those looking to switch things up from hamburgers, the Chicken Big Mac could be a delightful alternative.

Source