On October 22, reports emerged of a serious E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders, raising alarm among health officials and consumers alike. According to the Associated Press, federal health authorities have confirmed that the outbreak has affected at least 49 individuals across ten states, with one reported death and ten hospitalizations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that the fatality occurred in an elderly individual from Colorado, while a child was hospitalized due to severe kidney complications stemming from the E. coli infection.

The CDC’s data shows that between September 27 and October 11, reported cases of E. coli infection have surfaced in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Colorado has the highest number of cases, accounting for 26 of the total, followed by Nebraska with nine cases.

Interviews conducted by health officials revealed that all reported E. coli infections occurred after individuals dined at McDonald’s, with a significant number specifically mentioning the Quarter Pounder as part of their meal. In response, the USDA, FDA, and state health agencies have launched investigations into this foodborne illness outbreak.

While no specific ingredient has yet been identified as the source of the E. coli infection, investigators are focusing on both the onions and beef used in the burgers. Initial findings suggest that the sliced onions in the Quarter Pounders may have been contaminated, leading the USDA to examine the ground beef used in the sandwiches as well.

In a statement released on the 22nd, McDonald’s executives acknowledged the situation, indicating that preliminary investigations link certain illness cases to onions provided by a single supplier. As a precaution, McDonald’s has ceased the supply of sliced onions and temporarily removed the Quarter Pounder from the menu in several affected states. Restaurants in Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma are implementing similar measures.

McDonald’s emphasized their serious commitment to food safety in their response to the outbreak.