The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that stream onions served in McDonald's (MCD, Financial) Quarter Pounders caused an E. coli outbreak. According to the Report, the number of cases has reached 90, which is higher than the case quoted on October 22. The specific type of E. coli O157 is highly dangerous, and should be avoided at all costs as it is very dangerous and lethal, especially to children, older people, and the immunocompromised.
The affected onions are from Taylor Farms, and several batches have been recalled from their Colorado processing facility. Another investigation is underway at this place, and another probe of an onion grower in Washington State started recently. This was after the FDA and McDonald's said that vegetables were the concern behind the outbreak, not beef patties.
Mcdonald's CEO said that this is not only a public health concern, 27 people were hospitalized, and one person died from the lethal chicken nugget menace—but it is also a public relations nightmare for McDonald's. Nevertheless, McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski maintained customer confidence regarding the hygiene of their meals, affirming that they have resumed Quarter Pounder sales. The outbreak has affected one or multiple locations in several states, such as Colorado, Kansas, and Utah, with a considerable chunk of McDonald's fast-food restaurants in the United States.
