E. coli Contamination Initiates Beef Recall in Pennsylvania

May 2008

Potential E. coli contamination has initiated the recall of contaminated beef from 11 states, including PA. Foodborne illness that is contracted from E. coli can lead to sickness, hospitalization, and in severe cases can be fatal.

The contaminated meat subject to the recall is used in ground beef products. Included are 30-pound and 60-pound boxes and 47-gallon barrels of "MORREALE MEAT." The products have the number "EST. 6872" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The tainted beef products have a variety of different labels including, "Boneless Chucks," "Boneless Clods," "Flat Rounds," "Gooseneck Rounds" and "Knuckle."

The states by the recall are Pennsylvania, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. E. coli is a potentially deadly bacteria and can cause diarrhea, dehydration and kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are particularly susceptible to the risks of foodborne illness.