By: Richard L. Smith
Wolverine Packing Co., a Detroit-based meat supplier, is recalling approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
The recalled products, including fresh and frozen ground beef, were distributed nationwide to restaurant locations.
Fresh products are marked with a “use by” date of November 14, 2024, while frozen items have a production date of October 22, 2024. Each package bears the establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA inspection mark.
The contamination was discovered following an investigation by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture into a cluster of illnesses linked to the consumption of ground beef.
On November 13, 2024, FSIS was informed of the illnesses and began collaborating with Minnesota’s Departments of Agriculture and Health.
A ground beef sample collected during the investigation tested positive for E. coli O157 on November 20, confirming the connection to products from Wolverine Packing Co.
To date, 15 cases of illness have been reported in a single state, with onset dates ranging from November 2 to November 10, 2024. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and advise consumers and restaurants to check for and dispose of any affected products.
E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially dangerous bacteria that can cause severe foodborne illness, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, kidney failure.
Consumers with questions about the recall or those seeking more information can refer to FSIS's full list of affected products and labels.
The USDA urges the public to exercise caution and report any illnesses to health officials.