The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has cleared McDonald’s after a lethal E. coli outbreak linked to the Quarter Pounder. The CDC confirmed that their investigations into the outbreak have been closed, with no new illnesses reported in consumers who ate at McDonald’s after the company took swift action on October 22.
According to the CDC, one death, 34 hospitalizations, and 104 cases were reported across 14 states. E. coli can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. The outbreak was linked to “fresh, slivered onions” distributed by Taylor Farms and served on the Quarter Pounder.
The FDA initially declared no food safety concern related to the outbreak on November 13, but attributed the likely source of the outbreak to recalled yellow onions. McDonald’s confirmed that all contaminated products were removed from the supply chain by October 22.
McDonald’s chief officers praised the CDC for their investigation and thanked their restaurant teams for their compliance. The company stressed its commitment to public safety and values, particularly in taking swift action to address the issue.
The outbreak began on September 27, with illnesses documented until October 21. However, the true number of sick people is likely much higher than reported.
Source: https://people.com/mcdonalds-cleared-by-cdc-after-investigation-into-lethal-e-coli-outbreak-8754674