More than 100 individuals across multiple states have fallen ill due to an E.coli outbreak associated with slivered onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers, as reported by US health officials. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 34 of these cases have necessitated hospitalization, including one unfortunate death recorded in October.
The outbreak’s traced origin stems from onions supplied by Taylor Farms, which were recalled after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated they were the "likely source" of the E.coli infection, known for causing severe gastrointestinal distress. In an effort to rectify the situation, McDonald's has identified an alternative vegetable supplier and has resumed offering Quarter Pounders topped with onions at impacted locations.
The CDC noted that the illness onset dates span from 12 September to 21 October, with the onions distributed mainly across western and midwestern states, including Colorado, Iowa, and Kansas, as well as other regions like Oklahoma, Idaho, and New Mexico. The FDA, in conjunction with local departments of agriculture and public health, is actively testing onion and environmental samples from various McDonald's establishments and distribution centers.
Among those affected by the outbreak, four patients have developed haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)—a rare condition that can jeopardize kidney function and harm red blood cells. In its latest communication, the FDA reassured that there is currently no ongoing food safety threat at McDonald's restaurants. They also stated they believe it is "unlikely" that the contaminated onions ended up in grocery stores or were sold to consumers directly.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald's temporarily halted the sale of Quarter Pounder burgers in 20% of its US restaurants. Legal action has since been initiated by some affected consumers, including a proposed class-action lawsuit surfaced in October. McDonald's took prompt action by terminating their contract with the onion supplier.
Restocking their supply, the fast-food chain began selling the burger nationwide once negative test results for E.coli were confirmed for their beef patties, conducted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
On 29 October, McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski expressed remorse over the matter, emphasizing, "We offer our sincere and deepest sympathies and we are committed to making this right." He elaborated that the chain has successfully identified an alternative supplier to ensure the safety of Quarter Pounder burgers, which have now returned to menus in affected restaurants. McDonald’s reiterated its unwavering commitment to food safety, stating it will never compromise on this critical aspect of their operations.
