E. Coli O157:H7 Alert: USDA Issues Warning for Contaminated Beef Products from Greater Omaha Packing Co.

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Services (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for contaminated beef products. The alert, which was issued on April 20, warns consumers that ground beef products may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. Despite not requesting a recall, FSIS is urging caution as the products are no longer available for purchase.

The raw ground beef items in question were produced on March 28, 2024, and have a “Use/Freeze by” date of April 22, 2024, with a packaging date of “032824.” A list of the products subject to the public health alert can be found on the FSIS website. These products bear the establishment number “EST. 960A” within the USDA mark of inspection and were distributed nationwide to food service institutions and retail locations.

The press release from the USDA connects the contamination to Greater Omaha Packing Co. LLC, who discovered the issue while conducting an inventory of products on hold due to a positive test result for E. coli O157:H7. The company promptly notified FSIS that contaminated beef had been shipped into commerce accidentally.

Although there have been no confirmed reports of illness related to consuming these products, if there are any concerns about illness, individuals should contact their healthcare provider. FSIS is concerned that some contaminated products may still be in freezers at consumers’ homes or food service institutions and advises against consuming or serving them. The products should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase immediately.

E coli O157:H7 is a dangerous bacteria that can cause serious illnesses such as urinary tract infections and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure and death in severe cases