A major food safety alert has been issued after a deadly E. coli outbreak was linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwiches across several states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 49 cases of illness across 10 states, with one death and several hospitalizations. The outbreak, which started on September 27, affected states such as Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and more. Ten people were hospitalized, and one older adult from Colorado passed away due to complications.
Early investigations suggest that slivered onions in the Quarter Pounders may be the cause. In response, McDonald’s has removed the onions and beef patties from menus at affected locations and halted shipments to some states.
Despite this, McDonald’s reassured customers that other beef products are still available as health officials continue to trace the source of contamination. Symptoms of E. coli infection include cramps, diarrhea, and fever, with children and older adults at higher risk for severe illness.