Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — American fast-food giant McDonald’s has resumed sales of its Quarter Pounder burger following a recent E. coli outbreak tied to contaminated onions that resulted in one death and multiple hospitalizations.
The outbreak affected approximately 20% locations across the U.S., with impacted restaurants in states including Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Utah.
According to CNBC, U.S. health officials are still investigating the source of the outbreak. However, Cesar Pina, McDonald’s North America supply chain chief, noted that the issue appears limited to specific ingredients and regions.
“We remain confident that any potentially contaminated products linked to this outbreak have been removed from our supply chain and all locations,” Pina stated in a letter to U.S. franchisees.
The investigation by the Colorado Department of Agriculture found no trace of E. coli in sampled burger buns and beef patties from McDonald’s, suggesting that contaminated onions used in the Quarter Pounders may be the source. Taylor Farms, which produced the onions, has since been removed as a McDonald’s supplier indefinitely.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 75 cases of E. coli across 13 states, with 22 patients requiring hospitalization.
In the most severe cases, two individuals developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially fatal kidney condition, and an elderly Colorado resident passed away. The CDC confirmed that reported cases occurred between September 27 and October 11.
Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s U.S. division, issued a public apology to customers in a video posted on McDonald’s website.
McDonalds Linked to E. Coli Causing One Dead and Dozens Sick
“On behalf of the McDonald’s system, I want you to hear from me: we’re sorry,” Erlinger expressed, addressing customer concerns and the impact on sales. The outbreak has led to a drop in Quarter Pounder sales, with McDonald’s shares down 7% since the CDC connected the outbreak to its locations.
McDonald’s is set to release its third-quarter earnings report on Tuesday, with analysts closely watching any impact on its performance following the outbreak.
(Becky)
