E. coli outbreak investigation tied to onions in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders closes in U.S.

Investigation Closed: McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak No Longer a Safety Risk

The U.S. government announced on Tuesday that it has officially closed its investigation into the E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers. After thorough examination, authorities have determined that there is no longer a safety risk associated with the outbreak.

The outbreak, which first surfaced in late October, affected a total of 104 individuals across 14 states. Of those affected, 34 required hospitalization, and tragically, one person in Colorado lost their life as a result. Additionally, four individuals developed a severe kidney disease complication that posed a potentially life-threatening risk.

The investigation, led by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health departments, identified the source of the outbreak as yellow onions distributed by Taylor Farms, a California-based supplier. These onions were served raw on Quarter Pounders at various McDonald’s locations in states such as Colorado, Kansas, and Wyoming. Following the outbreak, Taylor Farms initiated a voluntary recall of the affected yellow onions on October 22.

Although federal and state health officials in Colorado were unable to detect the specific strain of E. coli in the onions they tested or in environmental samples, the evidence pointed towards the recalled yellow onions as the likely culprit behind the illnesses.

According to the FDA, McDonald’s has taken swift action to address the issue by no longer serving the recalled onions. As a result, there is no longer a food safety concern related to the outbreak associated with the fast-food chain.

In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s temporarily removed Quarter Pounders from a portion of its U.S. stores. However, the company quickly secured an alternate supplier and resumed the sale of Quarter Pounders with slivered onions in all of its U.S. locations last month.

It is important to note that McDonald’s Canada has confirmed that the E. coli concern does not extend to its Canadian locations, providing assurance to customers in the region.

With the investigation now closed and safety measures in place, customers can once again enjoy their favorite McDonald’s offerings without concerns of E. coli contamination.

For more information on the investigation, you can refer to the official statement released by the FDA.