McDonald's Onions Linked to E. Coli Outbreak in the U.S.
U.S. health officials have confirmed that slivered onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers are the likely source of a significant E. coli outbreak that has affected 90 individuals across 13 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the increase in cases from 75 earlier in the week, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The onions, supplied by Taylor Farms, have been voluntarily recalled, and McDonald's has removed them from their menu. The CDC has stated that the risk to the public is now considered “very low,” as all new illnesses occurred prior to the recall. Despite this, the outbreak has resulted in 27 hospitalizations and one confirmed death in Colorado.
Health Implications and Ongoing Investigations
E. coli infections are known to cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which typically last for three to four days. Most individuals recover without treatment, but some can develop serious complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome. This rare condition has been reported in at least two patients linked to the outbreak, including a 15-year-old girl from Colorado who has experienced kidney damage and required dialysis.
The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are closely monitoring the situation. Tests conducted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture have ruled out the beef patties in the Quarter Pounders as the source of the contamination, further implicating the onions. McDonald's has announced that it will begin selling Quarter Pounders without onions in affected states starting this week.
Broader Impact on Food Safety Practices
In light of the outbreak, several other restaurant chains in Colorado, including Taco Bell, Burger King, and KFC, have proactively removed onions from their menus as a precautionary measure. Although there have been no reported cases of E. coli linked to these establishments, the fast-food industry is under scrutiny regarding food safety practices. The outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent food safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
