The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has closed its investigation into a foodborne illness outbreak linked to raw onions on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, which sickened over 100 people in 14 states. The outbreak resulted in 34 hospitalizations and one death.
McDonald’s removed slivered onions from its menu on October 22, after the FDA determined they were the likely source of contamination. The onions were recalled and the company took steps to contain the issue, including removing them from its Colorado Springs facility indefinitely.
While evidence linking the onions to the outbreak was limited, interviews with those who were sickened suggested a connection between the onions and the illnesses. McDonald’s has identified Taylor Farms as its onion supplier in the Mountain West and will no longer use their onions at this location.
The company acknowledges that the process took time, but is grateful for the swift action taken by public officials to identify and contain the issue. However, McDonald’s is now facing lawsuits from several customers claiming to have fallen ill from the outbreak, with spokesmen stating the company is focused on regaining its customers’ trust.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/03/health/ecoli-mcdonalds-onions.html