Positive test result for E. coli spurs beef recall

A Newark, NJ, meat company is recalling more than 3,500 pounds of bulk beef cuts and trimmings because a sample tested positive for E. coli O157:H7.

All of the recalled beef and trimmings were produced by G&M Co. on June 8, 9 and 10 and were sent to retailers in New Jersey and New York. All of the recalled products are marked with the plant identifier number M5476.

The 3,586 pounds of recalled beef and trimmings are packaged in various sized boxes, ranging from 30 to 195 pounds, according to the recall notice on the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

“FSIS and the company are concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers,” according to the recall notice. “Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

“The issue was identified on June 14, 2016, when FSIS Inspection Program Personnel conducted trace-back and trace-forward activities after the firm received a confirmed positive for Escherichia coli O157:H7 from FSIS sampling and testing. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.”

Meat and other foods contaminated with E. coli may not look or smell bad.

E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps two to eight days after exposure the organism.

While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact Jose Morales, plant manager, at 973-621-7444.

from Food Safety News » Food Recalls http://ift.tt/261jWUf