The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Loblaw Companies Ltd. are recalling Butcher’s Choice Garlic Peppercorn Beef Burgers because they may be contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7. A number of illnesses caused by that bacteria have been reported in Canada. Public health officials are testing products from across the country. The recall may be expanded or modified as test results are received.
The product, which has been distributed nationally, is Butcher’s Choice Garlic Peppercorn Beef Burgers, sold frozen in 1.13 kg packages. The UPC number is 0 60383 89363 7, with code “BEST BEFORE 2013 MR 03 EST 752.”
Food that is contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7 will not look, taste, or smell spoiled. This bacteria can cause life-threatening illnesses, including hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure. This case highlights why consumers must always cook ground meat to well done, or at least 160 degrees F. For more information, call Loblaw at 1-800-296-2332 or the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342.
