Recalled Meat Sold In California Poses Serious Health Risk

Cargill Meat Solutions voluntarily recalled 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products on May 1st due to the possible presence of E. coli O157:H7. According to the Food Safety and Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture, the ground beef was produced on April 26th and April 27th of this year. The following products have the potential to be contaminated with the aforementioned bacteria:

• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing "93% LEAN 7% FAT ALL NATURAL LEAN GROUND BEEF" with lot code 117 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four "PRIME RIB BEEF STEAK BURGERS PATTIES" with lot code 118 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.
• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing "85% LEAN 15% FAT ALL NATURAL ANGUS PREMIUM GROUND BEEF" with lot code 117 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.
• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing "80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK" with lot code 118 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four "80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK PATTIES" with lot code 118 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four "90% LEAN 10% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN PATTIES" with lot code 118 and establishment number "EST. 86P" printed on the back of the label.

The recalled meat was shipped to Walmart stores across the country including those in California. The recall was issued due in large part to a "previously segregated product had been inadvertently utilized in the production of ground beef." Symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 exposure include abdominal cramps, dehydration, and bloody diarrhea that can last for up to eight days. Serious conditions including kidney failure can occur as a result of infection.

No illnesses were reported as of May 1st. Officials are urging individuals who think they may be infected with the bacteria (after consuming any of the products listed above) to seek medical attention immediately. Consumers who purchased these products should dispose of them or return them for a refund.

For addition information and to view product label photos visit fsis.usda.gov.