Walmart ground beef under recall from E. coli O157:H7

Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products, that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The raw ground beef items were produced April 26-27.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps, two to eight days after exposure to the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

This condition can occur among persons of any age, but is most common in children under five years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

The products subject to recall all bear the USDA mark of inspection on the front of the product label and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the product label. These items were shipped to Walmart retail locations nationwide.

The following products are subject to recall: 2.25-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing 93 percent lean, 7 percent fat all-natural ground beef, with lot code 117; 1.33-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing four prime rib beef steak burger patties, with lot code 118; 2.25-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing 85 percent lean, 15 percent fat all-natural angus premium ground beef, with lot code 117; 2.25-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing 80 percent lean, 20 percent fat all-natural ground beef chuck, with lot code 118; 1.33-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing four 80 percent lean, 20 percent fat all-natural ground beef chuck patties, with lot code 118; 1.33-pound plastic-wrapped trays, containing four, 90 percent lean, 10 percent fat all-natural ground beef sirloin patties, with lot code 118.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions from consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.