Cargill Meat Solutions, based in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, has announced a recall of approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef potentially contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The affected ground beef products were produced on April 26 and 27, 2024.

The recall includes various ground beef products distributed in plastic-wrapped trays to Walmart stores nationwide. The products under recall are:

• 2.25-lb trays labeled "93% LEAN 7% FAT ALL NATURAL LEAN GROUND BEEF" (Lot code 117)
• 1.33-lb trays containing four "PRIME RIB BEEF STEAK BURGERS PATTIES" (Lot code 118)
• 2.25-lb trays labeled "85% LEAN 15% FAT ALL NATURAL ANGUS PREMIUM GROUND BEEF" (Lot code 117)
• 2.25-lb trays labeled "80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK" (Lot code 118)
• 1.33-lb trays containing four "80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK PATTIES" (Lot code 118)
• 1.33-lb trays containing four "90% LEAN 10% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN PATTIES" (Lot code 118)

All recalled products feature the USDA mark of inspection and establishment number "EST. 86P" on their labels.

This recall was initiated after the discovery that previously segregated product, which was not intended for use, was inadvertently incorporated into ground beef production lines. As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of illness associated with these products.

Health Risks 

E. coli can cause severe foodborne illness, leading to dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps within 2-8 days after exposure. Most people recover within a week; however, some may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can cause kidney failure, especially in children under 5 years of age and the elderly.

Consumer Advisory

FSIS is advising consumers who have purchased these products to either discard them or return them to their place of purchase. The agency is also conducting checks to ensure the recall is effective and that the products are removed from store shelves.

For any inquiries or concerns, consumers can contact Cargill Meat Solutions at 1-844-419-1574. Additional food safety information is available through the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or by visiting the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.