A fatal E. coli outbreak affecting 75 individuals across 13 states has been traced back to yellow onions distributed by Taylor Farms. This situation has prompted a recall of the implicated product and led several fast-food franchises, including McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell, to eliminate yellow onions from their offerings. This action follows an incident where McDonald's identified its Quarter Pounders as a source of the outbreak.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the outbreak has resulted in one fatality and at least 75 people falling ill as of October 22. The deceased, an elderly individual with pre-existing health conditions, was from Colorado, as stated by the Colorado Department of Public Health.
Dr. Nicole Iovine, a leading epidemiologist, highlighted the risks associated with centralized food production systems, noting that they can amplify the impact of contamination events. McDonald's has pinpointed slivered onions in its Quarter Pounders as the outbreak's source, while stating that diced onions used in other menu items are not affected by the recall.
Preventative measures against foodborne illnesses, as recommended by Dr. Iovine, include exercising caution with food consumed outside the home and ensuring proper cooking and cleaning practices for meat and produce at home.
Source: NJ