A nationwide health alert has been issued for Greater Omaha ground beef products that pose a serious health risk. These products have tested positive for E. coli O157:H7, a particularly harmful strain of bacteria known to cause severe intestinal infection.
Potentially Contaminated Products
The affected raw ground beef was produced and packaged on March 28, 2024, with a “Use/Freeze by” date of April 22, 2024. Consumers should be on the lookout for packages bearing the “EST.960A” label within the USDA mark of inspection.
- 10-lb. ground beef chub
- 5-lb. ground beef chub with “GOURMET BLEND” label
- 5-lb. ground beef chub with “GOHERF” label
- 5-lb. ground beef chub with “GOANG” label and “LOT 34” packaging
- 4-pack 8-oz ground beef patties with “GOANG” and “Homestyle” packaging
- 4-pack 7-oz ground beef patties with “LOT 34” packaging
- 6-oz ground beef patties with “LOT 34” packaging
- 10-lb. ground beef chub with “FINE GRIND” label
- 4-pack 8-oz ground beef patties with “LOT 51” packaging
Specific lot and case codes for these products are available at the FSIS website.
Product Distribution and Actions Taken
The contaminated ground beef was distributed to restaurants and retail locations across the United States. The FSIS has issued a health alert, urging consumers to inspect their freezers for any affected products. Since the products are no longer available for sale, a recall has not been initiated.
Understanding the Risks of E. coli
E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms typically appear within three to four days after consuming contaminated food and can last for about a week. Young children and older adults are most vulnerable to serious complications, including kidney failure.
If you experience these symptoms after eating ground beef, seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Precautionary Steps and Food Safety
Consumers are strongly advised to check their freezers for potentially contaminated ground beef. If you find any affected products, do not consume them and discard them immediately.
To report a problem with these products, visit the Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System website. For food safety questions, contact the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-674-6854.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
