Possible E.Coli in Beef Prompts Voluntary Recall

A voluntary recall of packaged beef has been initiated by Davis Creek Meats and Seafood in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The reason for the recall is suspected E.Coli contamination. The Michigan Department of Community Health discovered the E.Coli illness problem as the result of an investigation, according to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service press release. See: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/pdf/recall_023_2007_release.pdf.

The recall concerns beef products sold during March 1 through April 30, 2007 distributed and sold to 15 states. E. Coli can be an annoying illness for healthy individuals, but it can be devastating for young children, older people and individuals with health issues. This food borne illness manifests itself in flu like symptoms. There are a range of symptoms, but most often it includes, diarrhea, body aches, vomiting, and headache. A list of product codes for the suspected beef contamination is set forth in the above mentioned USDA press release.

The possible tainted beef products were sold in Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

At this point the company Davis Creek Meats and Seafood is doing a voluntary recall of the affected beef products. It is important for all consumers to check their freezers for any beef products purchased during this time period in the affected states. If any consumer is in doubt you can contact your local merchant where you purchased the beef to ensure your beef purchases were not from Davis Creek Meats and Seafood in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service provides nationwide alerts to consumers on product recalls that may affect U.S. consumer health. In addition the web site does provide cooking hints and warnings concerning a wide range of food stuffs and other products in the food chain. Once a reported problem is found to exist in the packaging and manufacturing of a product strict requirements are employed to ensure the safety of future products sold by the producer.