McDonald’s Deadly E. Coli Outbreak Sickens Over 100 Across 14 States—‘Quarter Pounder Nightmare’

A widespread E. coli outbreak tied to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has sickened at least 104 people across 14 states, according to an update from federal health officials. This outbreak, which has been traced to slivered onions used on the popular burgers, has led to serious health consequences, including multiple hospitalizations and, tragically, one death.

Since the first cases were reported in late September, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been working with state health departments and McDonald's to identify the source of the outbreak. While McDonald's initially removed Quarter Pounders with slivered onions from menus in affected areas, the company has since resumed sales after testing ruled out beef patties as the source of contamination. Instead, attention has focused on the onions, which were provided by a supplier involved in the recall of certain batches of yellow onions linked to E. coli contamination.

The Impact of the Outbreak

The health impact has been severe. Of the 104 reported cases, 34 individuals required hospitalization, with four developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially fatal complication that can lead to kidney failure. Among those affected, an 88-year-old man from Grand Junction, Colorado, tragically lost his life due to the infection, marking a deadly turn in the outbreak.

Symptoms of E. coli infection typically include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Most individuals recover within five to seven days, but for those with weakened immune systems or underlying health issues, the infection can become life-threatening. The outbreak has raised significant concerns among consumers, who are advised to seek medical attention if they have consumed a Quarter Pounder and begin to exhibit severe symptoms.

McDonald’s Response and Onion Recall

In response to the outbreak, McDonald's initially pulled Quarter Pounders with slivered onions from affected restaurants. As a precautionary measure, the FDA and state officials collected onion samples and conducted testing to identify the source of contamination. While one sample tested positive for E. coli, it did not match the specific strain responsible for the outbreak, leaving questions about the exact origin of the contamination.

McDonald’s supplier, Taylor Farms, recalled batches of yellow onions following the discovery, and the fast-food giant has since switched to an alternate supplier for the 900 restaurants that had paused sales of Quarter Pounders with slivered onions. In a statement provided to CBS News, McDonald's reassured the public, saying, “There does not appear to be a continued food safety concern related to this outbreak at McDonald's restaurants.”

According to the FDA, McDonald's has resumed Quarter Pounder sales with slivered onions from a different supplier, and the chain assures customers that safety measures have been intensified to prevent further incidents.

Ongoing Food Safety Concerns

With foodborne illnesses becoming an increasing concern nationwide, the outbreak has underscored the importance of food safety at both corporate and consumer levels. Health officials advise the public to be vigilant, particularly when symptoms of E. coli infection arise. Those who experience severe symptoms after consuming a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder are urged to contact a healthcare provider immediately.

As McDonald’s works to restore confidence among its customers, this E. coli outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the critical role suppliers and stringent safety protocols play in safeguarding public health. Consumers are encouraged to remain informed and proactive about food safety, especially amid rising incidents of foodborne illness.