FSIS Warns of E. coli Contamination in Ground Beef Products by Greater Omaha Packing Co.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a warning that some ground beef products manufactured by Greater Omaha Packing Co. may be contaminated with E. coli. Over a dozen potentially tainted products, including both patties and tubes of raw ground beef, were made by the company and could still be in consumers’ and food service institutions’ freezers. The FSIS is urging the public not to consume these products due to possible E. coli contamination.

The problem was discovered by the company during an inventory check of products on hold due to a positive E. coli 0157:H7 finding. Despite their efforts to recall the affected meat, it was too late as they had already unintentionally used some of the contaminated beef to produce ground beef products that were then shipped into commerce. These products were sold to retailers and food service institutions across the country.

The specific strain of E. coli that may be present in the ground beef products is potentially deadly and can cause symptoms like dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps within 2-8 days (3-4 days on average) after exposure. Although no illnesses have been reported from consuming the ground beef products mentioned in the FSIS public health alert, consumers are advised to dispose of them or return them to the retailer immediately for a full refund or replacement.

Greater Omaha Packing Co., which supplies beef to over 70 countries, is responsible for a large percentage of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli illnesses in the United States due to this incident alone.

In conclusion, it is crucial for consumers and food service institutions to take immediate action upon hearing about this potential contamination issue from Greater Omaha Packing Co., as Ecoli can lead to severe health problems if consumed in affected meat products.