October 22, 2024 — A nationwide E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, according to a food safety alert issued today. The outbreak, which has affected 49 people across 10 states, has resulted in 10 hospitalizations and one death. Investigations are ongoing, and while no recall has been issued, McDonald’s has proactively pulled certain ingredients from its Quarter Pounders in select states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), along with state health officials, are actively investigating the source of the contamination. While the specific food ingredient responsible for the outbreak has not yet been confirmed, most affected individuals reported consuming Quarter Pounder hamburgers prior to falling ill.
McDonald’s is cooperating with the investigation and has temporarily ceased the use of fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties in several states as a precautionary measure. These ingredients are primarily used in the preparation of Quarter Pounders, and McDonald’s has taken this step to minimize potential further contamination.
The outbreak has hit hardest in Colorado and Nebraska, where most of the cases have been reported. While investigators continue to determine whether the contamination has spread to other restaurants or stores, McDonald’s has stopped selling Quarter Pounder hamburgers in affected regions until the source of the contamination is identified.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), the strain involved in this outbreak, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Infected individuals typically experience symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms usually appear three to four days after exposure and can last for up to a week.
Though most people recover without medical intervention, some may develop a potentially life-threatening condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which affects kidney function and may require hospitalization. It is critical for individuals who experience symptoms of E. coli infection—especially high fever, prolonged diarrhea, or signs of dehydration—to seek immediate medical attention.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s has taken swift action to protect customers. The company has temporarily halted the use of the suspected ingredients in several states while investigators work to confirm the contaminated component. Quarter pound beef patties and fresh slivered onions are specific to the Quarter Pounder line and are not used in other menu items.
Customers who ate a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder and are experiencing severe E. coli symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Diarrhea accompanied by a fever higher than 102°F
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days that does not improve
- Bloody diarrhea
- Severe vomiting that prevents the intake of liquids
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination
As the investigation continues, health officials advise customers to remain vigilant and seek medical care if they develop symptoms associated with E. coli infection.
This fast-moving investigation remains open, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For now, McDonald’s Quarter Pounders are unavailable in some states, with the company taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of its customers.
