An E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has caused at least one death and sickened nearly 50 people. The outbreak is believed to be linked to slivered onions served on the hamburgers, sourced from a single supplier and processed at a facility before being sent to restaurants. McDonald’s has removed the onions and quarter-pound beef patties from affected areas. The specific source of the onions has not been publicly disclosed, but health officials are investigating. The strain of E. coli in the outbreak, O157:H7, is particularly dangerous and can cause severe illness, including kidney disease. The CDC expects the number of cases to rise in the coming days, with the majority of cases reported in Colorado. Investigations are ongoing to determine if the contaminated onions were supplied to other restaurants or supermarkets. The FDA, CDC, and FSIS are working together to identify the source of the outbreak and ensure the safety of food products. Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Some cases can lead to life-threatening conditions. Meanwhile, a lawsuit has been filed by a man in Colorado who claims to have fallen ill after eating at McDonald’s. The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing and authorities are urging caution for those who may have consumed the affected products.
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