There has been an outcry recently due to the McDonald’s E.coli outbreak which is associated with the popular fast-food chain, McDonald’s. Epidemiological investigations on this foodborne disease outbreak are being conducted by Federal health officials, with McDonald’s onion supplier being identified as a probable source of most contaminations.
The incident has highlighted once vacated apprehensions about McDonald’s food safety issues supplied in the fast food outlets, especially the fresh vegetables. A timeline of what we know so far and what this means for food safety will be discussed in this article so let’s get started.
McDonald’s E. coli Outbreak News
As the outbreak puts the brand in a tight corner, Health regulators have been watching McDonald’s food safety issues. Given the outbreak, the company appears to have acted in a precautionary way- and onion-containing menu items have been withdrawn from the affected restaurants. In terms of scheduling meals and suppliers, McDonald’s has established complete lists and is increasing the prevention of cross-contamination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration are working together to investigate McDonald’s E. coli, outbreak resulting in vomiting and abdominal pain in various states, particularly in McDonald’s locations.
Onion Supplier Investigation
Federal authorities are attempting to follow the onions from the field to the restaurant, looking for contamination at every stage of the ranch-to-table system. This includes:
Harvesting Practices
There is a possibility of contamination of E. coli bacteria in the onions whenever contaminated water or soils are in contact during harvesting.
Processing and Packaging
While processing, the problem of cross-contamination should also be noted as it would result to cross contamination among the produce batches.
Transportation and Storage
Similarly, lack of proper sanitation during transport or improper conditions of storage can also be sources of contamination.
High chances of sanitary issues can be traced in produce, particularly onions, which should be handled with care to prevent contamination.
Health risks from E. coli
McDonald’s E. coli infection, which includes the Shiga toxin-producing strain (STEC) infection, can range in severity depending on the age and immunity of the individual. Such infections in some cases can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which can ultimately lead to kidney failure. There is a high concern regarding this in young children, the elderly, and other people with weakened immune systems.
Signs to Look Out For
- Severe pain in the abdomen
- Diarrhea, which may be bloody.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tiredness and thirst
These individuals must report the case to health authorities, particularly elderly or Immunocompromised individuals, and visit the nearest health facility after having these symptoms while eating at McDonald’s.
How to Protect Yourself
As Mcdonald’s attempts to understand the etiology behind the McDonald’s E. Coli outbreak, there are however precautions consumers should take, especially in the outbreak of the Foodborne illness in fast food.
- Be informed: Avoid recalled products due to suspected contamination or micro-biotoxin infestation.
- Use good hygiene: Wash hands before, after, and between meals.
- Contact medical professionals: Contact primary healthcare providers or ENTs if symptoms of an E. coli infection occur.
Final Thoughts
McDonald’s is once again being investigated for possible negligence regarding one of its suppliers, this time regarding E. coli contamination. The fact that the company acted so quickly is a good sign and may lead to an even wider scale change in how vegetables are handled in the fast food industry altogether. Visit Benefits by State for more insights.
