A deadly E. coli outbreak linked to fresh onions from Taylor Farms in California has caused McDonald’s to remove Quarter Pounder hamburgers from several states. At least 49 people in 10 states have been sickened, with one person dying. Other fast-food chains, including Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Burger King, have also pulled onions from their menus as a precaution. U.S. Foods, a major wholesaler, confirmed Taylor Farms’ recall of peeled whole and diced yellow onions due to potential E. coli contamination, but noted it wasn’t a McDonald’s supplier. The FDA is investigating the outbreak and looking at all possible sources. Yum Brands, which owns Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC, removed fresh onions from select restaurants, while Burger King disposed of onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility. Chipotle stated it doesn’t use ingredients from that facility. In the past, Taylor Farms has been involved in other outbreaks, including a 2015 E. coli incident related to a celery and onion mix used in Costco chicken salads. E. coli infections can cause severe symptoms, especially in vulnerable populations. A man in Colorado is suing McDonald’s after contracting an E. coli infection, linking it to food he ate at the restaurant. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and are particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The outbreak highlights the importance of food safety and regulations in the fast-food industry.
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Salinas-based Company’s Onions Implicated in McDonald’s E. coli Outbreak
