Fresh ground beef, tainted with E. Coli bacteria, and sold in grocery stores in a multistate area, is responsible for at least two deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The ground beef products, produced by Fairbanks Farms, of Ashville, NY, have been recalled and are no longer on sale. However, consumers may still have some of the products in their freezers, and are being urged to return the beef for a full refund.
Some 28 people across 12 states have been sickened by the strain of E Coli. Over 500,000 pounds of beef have been recalled and will be destroyed due to this outbreak.
According to the CDC, the beef products were packaged on September 15th and 16th 2009. Packages involved in the recall will have the establishment number “EST 492” in the USDA inspection mark on the package.
Symptoms of E. Coli infection are severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, blood and kidney problems may occur following the diarrhea. Seniors, people with compromised immune systems, and very young children are the most vulnerable to E. Coli poisoning.