E.Coli Concern Prompts Ground Beef Recall

WASHINGTON (AP) — A meatpacker is recalling more than 40,000 pounds of ground beef products that were shipped to institutions and distributors in California, along with 15 other states.

The recall by Nebraska-based Tyson Fresh Meats Inc. follows a test which confirmed the presence of E. coli, the Agriculture Department said Friday.

The other states affected include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

The company recalled 10-pound chubs of chuck fine ground beef 80/20, packed in cases containing eight chubs.

USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service said in a statement that the problem was discovered through routine monitoring that confirmed a positive result for E. coli. No reports of illness have been received.

E. coli is a bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration and, in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are the most susceptible.

FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees.

The USDA referred consumer questions to the company at 866-328-3156.

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