Wolverine Packing Co., based in Detroit, is recalling 167,277 pounds of ground beef products due to potential E. coli contamination.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall on Thursday, noting that the affected products were distributed to restaurants nationwide. These products bear the establishment number "EST. 2574B" within the USDA inspection mark. The recalled items include both fresh beef with a "use by" date of Nov. 14 and frozen beef produced on Oct. 22.
A detailed list of the recalled products, along with their labels, is available through the USDA. The issue was first identified after the Minnesota Department of Agriculture reported several illnesses linked to ground beef consumption.
On Nov. 13, FSIS was informed of the illnesses and worked with state officials in Minnesota to trace the source of the outbreak. By Nov. 15, a ground beef sample tested positive for E. coli.
As of Thursday, 15 people in Minnesota have been identified as affected, with symptoms occurring between Nov. 2 and Nov. 10.
FSIS is concerned that contaminated products may still be in restaurant freezers or refrigerators. Restaurants are urged to avoid serving the recalled beef, which should be disposed of or returned to the point of purchase.
Anyone concerned about potential illness should contact a healthcare provider. E. coli infections can lead to severe symptoms, including dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, typically within two to eight days of exposure. Some individuals, particularly young children and older adults, may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious kidney condition. Symptoms of HUS include easy bruising, paleness, and reduced urine output. Immediate medical attention is recommended if these symptoms appear.
In response to the recall, Wolverine Packing Co. issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to consumer safety and food quality. The company is cooperating with FSIS and conducting a thorough internal review of its processes. Wolverine Packing Co. also reassured the public that maintaining high standards of production is their top priority.
Founded in 1937, Wolverine Packing Co. has evolved from a lamb and veal processor to a major supplier of various meats and seafood products. Headquartered in Detroit's Eastern Market area, the company stocks over 250 brands and offers more than 4,000 different protein products.
This is not the first recall for Wolverine Packing Co.; in 2014, the company recalled 1.8 million pounds of ground beef after 11 individuals across four states became ill from E. coli contamination.