Deadly E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Spreads Nationwide
A concerning foodborne illness outbreak has swept across the United States, as 104 people in 14 states have fallen ill from E. coli bacteria linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, according to the latest update from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Growing Impact Across the Nation
The outbreak has resulted in a severe toll.
- One death has been reported in Grand Junction, Colorado.
- 34 hospitalizations
- Four cases of kidney-related complications
- Cases spread across 14 states, with Colorado reporting the highest number at 30 cases.
“The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported,” the CDC warns. Many people recover without seeking medical care or testing, and the 3-4 week reporting delay may prevent the reporting of recent cases.
Source identified and action taken
Health officials have traced the outbreak to raw, slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms, not the beef patties as initially suspected. In response to this finding:
- McDonald’s temporarily pulled Quarter Pounders from hundreds of restaurants.
- Taylor Farms issued a recall of the affected onions.
- McDonald’s has found a new onion supplier.
- About 900 restaurants have now resumed selling Quarter Pounders with slivered onions from the alternative supplier.
State-by-State Breakdown
Multiple states have been affected by the outbreak, with the following case numbers:
- Colorado: 30 cases
- Montana: 19 cases
- Nebraska: 13 cases
- New Mexico: 10 cases
- Missouri and Utah: 8 cases each
- Wyoming: 6 cases
- Kansas: 3 cases
- Michigan: 2 cases
- Iowa, Oregon, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin: 1 case each
Health Warnings and Symptoms
The FDA states there is no longer a food safety concern at McDonald’s restaurants. However, health experts advise seeking medical attention if you experience these severe E. coli symptoms:
- Diarrhea with fever above 102°F
- The patient has been experiencing persistent diarrhea for more than three days.
- Bloody diarrhea
- Severe vomiting prevents liquid retention.
- Dehydration signs including:
- Reduced urination
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dizziness upon standing
Legal Implications
The outbreak has sparked legal action, with McDonald’s facing a class-action lawsuit seeking over $5 million in damages for victims. Legal experts note that liability may extend beyond individual franchises to the entire supply chain.
“People have an obligation to sell safe food, and they have an obligation to sell safe products,” explains attorney John McCabe. Failure to do so exposes them to liability.
Business Impact
The outbreak has affected McDonald’s sales, though the company has acted swiftly to protect customers and restore confidence. The fast-food giant has successfully reintroduced Quarter Pounders to menus after securing a new onion supplier and receiving clearance from health officials.
Despite ongoing monitoring, the FDA maintains that “this outbreak at McDonald’s restaurants does not appear to be a continuing food safety concern.”