On September 27, the first case of an E. coli infection linked to McDonald’s was reported, marking the start of an outbreak that has since left nearly 75 people ill and one dead by October 10. The cause of the outbreak has been traced back to slivered onions from Taylor Farms, which were used in the McDonald’s Quarter Pounder across multiple states. As a result, McDonald’s has pulled the burger from its menu in 13 states, and Taylor Farms has issued a recall on all onion products.
Around Sep. 27, the first illness of E-coli was found. The last outbreak like this happened on Jan. 5 2024 Many more cases were found later on, with almost 75 sick and one confirmed dead by Oct.10. The only link between the patients was that they all had the Quarter Pounder from McDonald’s.
Since then, McDonald’s has pulled the Quarter Pounder from the menu in 13 states. Many people believed it had to be the meat that was used. The FDA started an investigation and found that the slivered onions that were delivered by Taylor Farms could be the cause of the outbreak.
On Oct. 22, the Quarter Pounders were put back on the menu with only onions missing. McDonald’s also sent out a statement stating that they have decided to stop sourcing onions from Taylor Farms. This one mishap from Taylor Farms caused over 900 restaurants that receive onions from their farms to close or remove items off the menu. Taylor Farms has issued a recall of all onion products.
“It makes me really worried if the food I’m eating is safe,” said senior Isaiah Gregory, who was not aware of the outbreak.
The ripple effect of this contamination has impacted restaurants across the region, leading to significant financial strain for many businesses that rely on Taylor Farms produce. Fast-food chains, grocery stores and small restaurants have faced disruptions as they seek alternative suppliers. Experts point to the incident as a call for increased vigilance within the food industry, highlighting how even a single contamination point can have widespread consequences.
Meanwhile, Taylor Farms has pledged to strengthen its food safety protocols, acknowledging the concerns of their customers. They have issued a formal apology and are in the process of evaluating and revising their handling and processing methods to meet stricter standards.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the critical importance of thorough safety practices in food production and the interconnected nature of the food supply chain.
