An E. coli outbreak in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has resulted in at least one death and nearly 50 illnesses. The source of the outbreak is believed to be slivered onions served on the hamburgers. The onions come from a single source and are sliced and packaged at a facility before being sent to McDonald’s restaurants. McDonald’s has removed the sliced onions and quarter-pound beef patties from its menu in affected areas. The strain of E. coli involved produces a powerful toxin that can damage the small intestine. As of now, 49 people have been sickened, with one death reported. People who have fallen ill are mainly in Colorado, with other cases reported in Nebraska and several other states. The outbreak was first linked to a Quarter Pounder in Colorado in late September, and the CDC ramped up its investigation in mid-October. Although the outbreak is believed to be linked to the slivered onions, the FDA is continuing to investigate the safety of the ground beef patties used in the burgers. It’s unclear if the onions were supplied solely to McDonald’s or other restaurants as well. The FDA has advised the public to watch for symptoms of E. coli infection, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
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