Beef Recall Expanded, USDA Announces

July 2009

Right before Fourth of July cookouts, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the expansion of a beef recall issued last week by JBS Swift Beef Company. The expanded recall extends to 380,000 pounds of beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, at least 12 people have been hospitalized in connection with the possible outbreak, and two of them suffered kidney failure. More than 20 people have fallen ill in nine states. Food safety experts aren't yet sure where the meat was shipped or in what grocery stores it was sold.

E. coli symptoms include bloody diarrhea and dehydration. In extreme cases, individuals can suffer from kidney failure. The USDA has suggested tips to avoid food poisoning, including using a thermometer to make sure ground beef is cooked to 160 degrees F.