The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for ground beef sold in the Carolinas due to possible E. coli contamination.
The alert applies to 1-pound vacuum-packed packages of Organic Rancher brand organic ground beef, labeled as 85% lean and 15% fat. The affected products bear use- or freeze-by dates of June 19 or June 20 and were produced by Vermont-based NPC Processing. Each package includes the establishment number “Est. 4027” inside the USDA mark of inspection.
Although the beef is no longer available in stores, FSIS warned that consumers may still have the products in their refrigerators or freezers. The agency urges anyone in possession of the meat to either discard it or return it to the store where it was purchased.
The products were sold at Whole Foods Market locations across North Carolina and South Carolina between May 26 and June 3.
As of now, no confirmed illnesses have been reported. However, FSIS advises individuals who may have consumed the product and feel unwell to contact a healthcare provider.
E. coli is a potentially life-threatening bacterium that can cause symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. Symptoms typically begin two to eight days after exposure. While many people recover within a week, severe cases can result in hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that may lead to kidney failure. This complication is most common in children under five and older adults.
Consumers with questions can visit the FSIS website or contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline for more information.
