Ground Beef E. Coli Alert: USDA Issues Public Health Warning

It's time to check your freezer. Ground beef sold nationwide may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria.

Why the USDA Issued a Public Health Alert Without a Recall

While a recall has not been formally issued, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert to raise consumer awareness regarding the products after it was found to have tested positive for E. Coli O157:H7.

What Are the Symptoms of E. Coli O157:H7 Infection?

E. Coli is the commonly abbreviated name for the group of Escherichia coli bacterias. It is often found in our environments, in our digestive tract, as well as in the digestive tract of animals, and it is also commonly found in food. There are several different kinds of E. Coli bacteria and most of them are harmless to humans. However, there are that some, like E. Coli O157:H7 that produce a powerful toxin, known as Shiga according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a Shiga Toxin-producing E. Coli (STEC) infection can start to cause symptoms within three to four days of ingesting something contaminated by the bacteria, but they do say that illnesses can start as early as one day, or as late as ten days after exposure. The CDC says symptoms include:

Symptoms of Shiga toxin-producing <em>E. coli </em>(STEC) infection vary for each person, but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Some people may have a fever, which usually is not very high (less than 101˚F/38.5˚C). Most people get better within 5 to 7 days. Some infections are very mild, but others are severe or even life-threatening.

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The Serious Risks: What Is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)?

In addition to the symptoms above, the USDA points out that while most people impacted by this type of bacteria are able to recover in about a week, there are those who may develop something called hemolytic uremic syndrome or HUS. This is a type of kidney failure that can impact anyone but it most commonly occurs in children under the age of five years old, and older adults. HUS can cause decreased urine output, pallor, and easy bruising, and anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate emergency medical care.

How to Identify the Affected Ground Beef in Your Freezer

The raw ground beef products are no longer on store shelves, but may be in consumer freezers. They were produced on May 22, 2025, and May 23, 2025, and were packaged in one-pound vacuum-packed packages. The label of the affected products read "ORGANIC RANCHER ORGANIC GROUND BEEF 85% LEAN 15% FAT," and they have a "Use or Freeze By 06-19-25" and "Use or Freeze By 06-20-25" stamps.

The recalled ground beef was shipped to distributors in Illinois and four additional states, and was distributed to Whole Foods Market locations across the nation, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Consumers are encouraged to check their freezers. These products should not be consumed and should be thrown in the trash.

How to Safely Handle and Cook Ground Beef at Home

One of the best ways to prevent foodborne illnesses is to ensure proper handling and proper cooking. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees, and that temperature should be checked using a meat thermometer. Learn more about safe internal cooking temperatures for your food here.