E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's Onions: 90 Infected, Lawsuit Filed
October 30, 2024The outbreak has resulted in 27 hospitalizations and one confirmed death, raising serious public health concerns.
Taylor Farms, the supplier of the implicated onions, has withdrawn its onion products, although the specific grower has yet to be identified.
As part of the investigation, the FDA has begun inspections at a Taylor Farms processing center in Colorado, where 29 illnesses have been reported.
Currently, McDonald's stock is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 23, indicating potential for future growth despite the recent challenges.
An outbreak of E. coli illness has affected 90 people across the country, with the CDC linking it to slivered onions served on McDonald's Quarter Pounders.
Despite the outbreak, the CDC has indicated that the risk to the public is now very low due to the recall actions taken by McDonald's and Taylor Farms.
Among the affected individuals is a 15-year-old girl from Grand Junction, Colorado, who was hospitalized with kidney damage after consuming the contaminated food.
In response to the outbreak, two consumers have filed a planned class-action lawsuit in Chicago, seeking over five million dollars in damages.
This incident underscores the importance of collaborative recall management across the supply chain to enhance efficiency and public safety.
Industry experts suggest that monitoring McDonald's situation is crucial, as similar past incidents have often led to recovery and stock growth.
The CDC's investigation suggests that the actual number of E. coli cases could be higher than reported, as many individuals may not seek medical care.
Preparedness for foodborne illness outbreaks requires clear communication and alignment with trading partners to protect public health and brand reputation.
Summary based on 22 sources
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Sources
Los Angeles Times • Oct 31, 2024
McDonald's E. coli outbreak now has 90 victims; lawsuits multiply - Los Angeles TimesAP News • Oct 30, 2024
McDonald's E. coli case count rises as federal officials inspect an onion growerArs Technica • Oct 30, 2024
Slivered onions are likely cause of McDonald’s E. coli outbreak, CDC says