A Detroit-based company, Wolverine Packing Co., is recalling over 167,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential E. coli contamination, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Just the Facts
• Recall Details: Affected products include fresh ground beef with a “use by” date of Nov. 14, and frozen products labeled with a production date of Oct. 22.
• Identification: Products bear establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA inspection mark.
• Distribution: The recalled products were shipped to restaurants across the U.S.
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• Discovery: Minnesota health officials linked the contamination to Wolverine Packing Co. after investigating a cluster of illnesses.
• Health Impact: To date, 15 individuals in one state have fallen ill, with onset dates between Nov. 2 and Nov. 10.
• E. coli Symptoms: Infected individuals can experience severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and in some cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome, which may lead to kidney failure.
The Investigation
The agriculture department continues to work with Minnesota’s agriculture and health departments to track the source and distribution of the contaminated products. The investigation began after a beef sample tested positive for E. coli as part of an outbreak inquiry.
Why It Matters
E. coli is a serious health risk. While many recover in about a week, complications such as HUS can be life-threatening, particularly for children under five and older adults.
The agriculture department warns that contaminated products may still be stored in restaurant freezers or refrigerators.
How You Can Help
• Restaurants: Do not serve these products. Return them or dispose of them immediately.
• Consumers: If you suspect illness from contaminated beef, seek medical attention. Use a food thermometer to ensure beef is cooked to 160°F, which kills harmful bacteria.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist with 25-years experience in journalism. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is the publisher of The Georgia Sun and a fifth-generation Georgian.