A public health alert has been issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) for certain ground beef products due to possible contamination with E. coli, a pathogen that can cause serious, and sometimes severe, foodborne illness in certain populations.
Background
The presence of E. coli in the affected product was discovered during testing by NPC Processing, Inc. who then notified FSIS.
A recall has not been issued because the impacted product is no longer available for sale.
Distribution
The recalled product was distributed to Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, and also to Whole Foods Market grocery stores across the United States.
Product Details
- Product – ORGANIC RANCHER ORGANIC GROUND BEEF 85% LEAN 15% FAT
- Size – 1 lbs vacuum-sealed packages
- Additional Info – “Use or Freeze By 06-19-25” or “Use or Freeze By 06-20-25” on the packaging
- Establishment Number – EST. 4027
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their homes for the recalled product.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled product is requested to not sell, serve, donate, or distribute them.
The affected product should be returned to the place of purchase or thrown away immediately.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the impacted product.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Danny Desautels, NPC Processing, Inc. President at 802-660-0496 (office), 802-310-7644 (mobile) or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
There have been no reports of injuries or illnesses associated with consumption of the affected product. Any consumer who has come into contact with the impacted item, and is experiencing sickness or symptoms of food poisoning, should contact their medical provider immediately.
The majority of E. coli strains are not harmful and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem by assisting in breaking down the food, contributing to the production of essential vitamins, and acting as a defense mechanism against more dangerous microorganisms.
However, not all E. coli are benign. Certain strains can cause a range of health issues in humans, including gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, infections of the urinary tract, respiratory ailments like pneumonia, and even severe systemic infections such as sepsis. Symptoms generally appear two to five days after exposure but can emerge anywhere from one to eight days later. Most people recover within 5-10 days.
Of particular concern, however, is the potential for some patients to develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that can lead to kidney failure, neurological damage, and in extreme cases, death. This risk makes early medical intervention crucial for infected individuals.
