Michigan Packer Recalls 1.8 Million Pounds of Beef

Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. has recalled 1.8 million pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli, the USDA’s Food and Safety Inspection Service said Monday.

The ground beef products were produced from March 31-April 14 and were sold for restaurant use in four states, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio, according to a news release.

The Food and Safety Inspection Service was notified of 11 E. coli related illnesses on May 12. Illnesses were found in all four states where the suspect beef was shipped.

E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2–8 days (3–4 days, on average) after exposure the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome.

This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. 

Persons who experience these symptoms should FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degree  F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature.