An E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s quarter pounder hamburgers has resulted in at least 49 reported illnesses across 10 states, including one death, Al Jazeera reports.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the majority of cases are concentrated in Colorado and Nebraska, with many affected individuals having consumed the quarter pounder before falling ill. Health officials are still investigating the specific ingredient responsible for the outbreak. McDonald’s has temporarily halted the use of fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties in certain states while the investigation continues.
McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger emphasized the company’s commitment to food safety and pledged to provide updates. McDonald’s shares dropped about 9% in after-hours trading following the news.
