What's happened
The CDC has closed its investigation into an E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers, which sickened 104 people across 14 states, resulting in one death. The outbreak was traced to yellow onions supplied by Taylor Farms, prompting recalls and menu changes.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the CDC confirmed that 'there does not appear to be a continued food safety concern' as McDonald's has not served the recalled onions for over a month. The Independent reported that McDonald's has resumed normal operations with a different onion supplier, but the outbreak has hurt demand, prompting a $100 million marketing effort. AP News noted that the FDA found no E. coli in the onions tested, yet concluded that the recalled onions were the likely source based on interviews with affected individuals. This illustrates the complexity of food safety investigations and the challenges faced by large food chains in maintaining consumer trust.
How we got here
The outbreak began in late September 2024, with the first cases reported on September 27. McDonald's removed slivered onions from its restaurants on October 22 after the FDA linked the outbreak to these onions, which were supplied by Taylor Farms.
Common question
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What Caused the E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's?
The recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's has raised significant health concerns across the nation. With 104 reported illnesses and one death, understanding the source and implications of this outbreak is crucial for consumers. Below, we address common questions regarding the outbreak, its causes, and how to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses.
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What Caused the Recent E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's?
The recent E. coli outbreak associated with McDonald's has raised significant concerns about food safety and public health. With 104 reported cases and one death, understanding the source and implications of this outbreak is crucial. Below, we address common questions regarding the outbreak, its causes, and the steps taken by McDonald's and health authorities.
More on these topics
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a national public health institute in the United States. It is a United States federal agency, under the Department of Health and Human Services, and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
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McDonald's Corporation is an American fast food company, founded in 1940 as a restaurant operated by Richard and Maurice McDonald, in San Bernardino, California, United States.
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The Food and Drug Administration is a federal agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, one of the United States federal executive departments.
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Colorado is a state in the western United States encompassing most of the southern Rocky Mountains as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains.
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Salmonella is a genus of rod-shaped Gram-negative bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae. The two species of Salmonella are Salmonella enterica and Salmonella bongori.