McDonald’s focuses on onions as the probable cause of fatal E. coli outbreak

A deadly E. coli outbreak in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has led to at least one death and nearly 50 illnesses, with slivered onions on the burgers being the suspected source of contamination. The onions come from a single source, but neither the company nor health officials have disclosed where they were grown or if they were distributed to other restaurants. The outbreak strain, O157:H7, can damage the small intestine. This is the first time this strain has been linked to raw onions, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 49 people have been sickened, with the majority of cases in Colorado. McDonald’s has removed the sliced onions and beef patties from affected areas, and a lawsuit has been filed by a man claiming illness. The CDC expects more cases to surface as investigations continue. State and federal health agencies are working to determine the source of contamination and assess potential risks to other food items. The FDA is working closely with the CDC and FSIS to verify the safety of the ground beef used in McDonald’s products. Symptoms of E. coli infection can be severe, including stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and kidney failure. The investigation continues to establish a clearer picture of the outbreak and prevent future cases.

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