Scanning the menu for a delicious snack, eyes drift towards the quarter pounder burger. The first bite is pure bliss, but in just a few hours your stomach will think otherwise. This past October, world-known fast-food chain McDonald’s has been under investigation after a recent E.coli outbreak linked to their popular quarter pounders.
Approximately 90 people have fallen victim to the disease, after multiple reports of harmful stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and occasional fever have been filed. However, connecting the outbreak to its culprit has been no easy task. After 17 year-old Silas Mayes tested positive for E. coli bacteria, all 50 states health departments were alerted of the STEC infection: a bacteria that kills cells, diminishing tissue. In an extremely severe situation, further complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome can cause kidney failures and even death.
On Oct. 7, Mesa County, Colorado launched an investigation, questioning everyone who reported an infection about their latest food consumption, contact with animals, travels, and other details. After just a few days of making calls, it was revealed that the majority of the cases involved McDonald’s. It was speculated that the spread may be due to the ways in which employees prepared the food.
However, after the environmental health team was sent to the restaurant, it was evident that all employees followed standard procedure. Efficiently washing their hands and disinfecting cooking tools properly, this led the health department to the conclusion that the root of the infection lies deeper than the surface level.
Colorado’s health department contacted the CDC, suspecting the E. coli outbreak leads back to ground beef. After investigating the DNA fingerprints of all the victims, it became apparent that the cases were linked. Victims were asked to recall the intricate details of their latest meals, where it was revealed that the McDonald’s quarter pounder item, made out of beef and slivered onions, was eaten by the majority of the victims.
McDonald’s supplier Taylor Farms concluded that the outbreak originated from the onions and thankfully due to the quick investigation process, company consumers were able to eliminate the ingredient quickly.
As a resolution of the issue, McDonald’s released a statement ensuring the “health and safety of our people and our customers is our top priority.” On Instagram, they shared that the brief pause of serving Quarter Pounder Burgers will resume regular practice. PPCHS sophomore Derek Thompson shared his thoughts, saying, “I think the fact that this happened shows how much quality control McDonald’s really has.” However, despite the reassurance from McDonald’s, the public has become skeptical of their food. The CDC assumes that more cases will gradually be reported.
