Additional Coverage:
E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
McDonald’s has suspended sales of Quarter Pounders at a fifth of its US restaurants after a federal investigation linked them to an E. coli outbreak. Nearly 50 people in 10 states have been infected, with one fatality.
Possible Source of Contamination
Investigators believe the contamination may have originated from slivered onions used as a topping on Quarter Pounders. While the beef patties are cooked at a temperature high enough to kill E. coli, the onions are not.
Affected States and Symptoms
The outbreak has affected people in Colorado, Nebraska, and other Western states. Most reported eating Quarter Pounders from McDonald’s. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Precautions
McDonald’s has removed Quarter Pounders and slivered onions from impacted locations. Consumers who ate a Quarter Pounder and experience severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Other Facts
- It typically takes 3-4 weeks to confirm an outbreak.
- The incubation period for E. coli is only a couple of days, so those affected would have symptoms by now.
- The outbreak follows a similar incident in 2018 where McDonald’s salads caused an intestinal illness in over 500 people.
- McDonald’s shares have dropped significantly due to the outbreak.