McDonald’s has identified slivered onions as the likely source of an E. Coli outbreak that has affected at least 49 people across ten states, resulting in one death. The investigation is focused on Taylor Farms, a California-based produce company, prompting McDonald’s to remove Quarter Pounder hamburgers from numerous locations.
Federal health officials reported that at least ten individuals have been hospitalized, including a child who experienced severe kidney complications from the infection. Those who fell ill reported symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea between September 27 and October 11, typically appearing one to two days after consuming contaminated food.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the strain involved is E. Coli O157, known for producing a harmful toxin. CDC data indicates this bacteria causes approximately 74,000 infections, leading to over 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths annually in the U.S.
As a precaution, other fast-food chains like Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Burger King have also removed onions from their menus. Yum Brands, which owns Taco Bell and KFC, has stopped using fresh onions in certain restaurants but did not specify whether it sources from the same supplier as McDonald’s.
Restaurant Brands International, which operates Burger King, noted that only 5% of its locations use onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility. They have removed those onions and are sourcing from other suppliers.
Taylor Farms has recalled peeled whole and diced yellow onions due to potential E. Coli contamination. However, US Foods, a major wholesaler that supplies various restaurants, stated that its recall does not affect any McDonald’s products.
While the FDA has not confirmed an investigation into Taylor Farms, a spokesperson indicated that the agency is looking into all potential sources related to the outbreak. In a concerning turn, a man from Greeley, Colorado, has filed a lawsuit against McDonald’s after contracting an E. Coli infection linked to the outbreak.
