BrucePac Meat Recall: 10 Million Pounds of Meat Recalled Due to E. coli Contamination
A massive meat recall is underway, with BrucePac recalling over 10 million pounds of ground beef products due to potential E. coli contamination. The recall, announced by the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), affects products distributed across the country.
Here's what you need to know about the BrucePac meat recall:
What Products Are Recalled?
The recall includes various ground beef products produced by BrucePac, including:
- Ground beef patties
- Ground beef chubs
- Ground beef for burgers
The products were produced between July 1 and July 10, 2023, and have "EST. 184" inside the USDA inspection mark.
Why Was the Recall Issued?
The recall was issued after an investigation linked several cases of E. coli O157:H7 to the contaminated meat. This strain of E. coli can cause severe food poisoning, leading to bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting.
Symptoms usually appear within 3-4 days after consuming contaminated food. In some cases, the infection can be life-threatening, especially for young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
How to Identify Recalled Products
The recalled products are identified by their "EST. 184" mark and specific production dates. Consumers are urged to check the packaging of their ground beef products to determine if they are affected.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Products
If you have purchased any of the recalled products, do not consume them. Instead:
- Throw away the contaminated meat immediately.
- Wash any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products thoroughly with hot soapy water.
- Wash your hands with soap and water after handling the contaminated meat.
Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall can contact BrucePac at 1-800-555-1212.
Importance of Food Safety
This recall highlights the importance of proper food safety practices. Always ensure that meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
For more information about food safety and E. coli, consult the USDA website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It's important to stay informed about food recalls and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family.
