Health officials have issued an urgent warning over ground beef sold at Whole Foods that may be contaminated with E. coli, a type of bacteria linked to colon cancer. The US Department of Agriculture has public health alert for one-pound, vacuum packaged packages of Organic Rancher Beef from Vermont-based NPC Processing Inc.
The products were produced in Australia or Uruguay and processed in the US before being sent to distributors nationwide. So far, no illnesses have been reported, but consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for affected products. Those who find them should dispose of them immediately or return them to the store.
E. coli is a common cause of foodborne illness, especially undercooked ground beef. It can also be found in leafy greens, raw milk, and unpasteurized dairy products. Proper kitchen hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of E. coli through contaminated water and other foods like poultry.
The bacteria can cause symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. While most people recover within a week, some may develop severe kidney damage or hemolytic uremic syndrome. Children under 5 and older adults are at higher risk due to weakened immune systems.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14783707/whole-foods-ground-beef-recall-deadly-bacteria-colon-cancer.html