The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC is investigating an E. coli outbreak in the Mountain West and Midwest, reportedly linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. Although a specific ingredient has not yet been identified, initial investigations suggest that slivered onions may be the likely source of contamination.
McDonald’s has pulled these ingredients from affected locations, leading to the temporary removal of Quarter Pounders from menus in several states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, and Wyoming.
As of now, at least 49 illnesses have been reported, including one death in Colorado. The outbreak has also affected individuals in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The CDC has advised anyone who consumed a Quarter Pounder and is experiencing symptoms—such as severe diarrhea, high fever, or signs of dehydration—to seek medical attention.
E. coli infections can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, often leading to hospitalization in vulnerable populations, particularly young children. While most individuals recover without treatment within a week, severe cases can lead to kidney failure.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s emphasized its commitment to food safety, stating that they are cooperating with health officials and have paused the distribution of slivered onions in the impacted areas.
The company plans to work with suppliers to replenish the Quarter Pounder supply in the coming weeks, assuring customers that no other menu items are affected.
For ongoing updates, individuals are encouraged to monitor CDC announcements and consult healthcare providers if symptoms arise.