CDC declares end of McDonald’s E. coli outbreak

The E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has ended, according to the CDC. A total of 104 cases were identified in 14 states, with 34 hospitalizations and one death reported. Taylor Farms distributed the onions, which were pulled from McDonald’s restaurants in the affected states once the outbreak was announced. At least four people developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious illness that can lead to kidney failure. One patient, a 15-year-old girl from Colorado, became ill shortly after eating at McDonald’s. The outbreak was traced back to Quarter Pounders, the only menu item containing the specific onions. Investigators interviewed those affected, with most reporting eating at McDonald’s and consuming food containing fresh, slivered onions. The quick recall of the onions ultimately resolved the outbreak, with the FDA stating there is no longer a food safety concern. The CDC has declared the outbreak over and the FDA’s investigation is closed.

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