The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported five cases of E. coli 0157:H7 illnesses related to recalled frozen beef burgers. So far, two people in Alberta are sick, and three people in Ontario have the infection. The recalled products were produced by Cardinal Meat Specialists and include Butcher’s Choice Burgers and Cardinal brand Prime Rib Beef Burgers.
Ten samples of that product tested positive for the pathogenic bacteria. The report states that, “based on all the information collected to date – epidemiological, microbiological, and food safety – the cases are linked to the specific strain of E. coli 0157 found in the recalled frozen beef burgers.”
The government started its investigation on December 5, 2012 after the cluster of illnesses was reported. Public health officials are looking at all of the ingredients used to produce the burgers, including Canadian beef and beef imported from other countries.
The victims include three males and two females, between the ages of 10 and 59. They became ill from early September to late November. One person has been hospitalized in this outbreak. No one has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome and all of the patients are recovering.
If you purchased these products, do not use them. Either discard it in a sealed container, or return it to the place of purchase. Check your freezer to see if you have these products. If you have eaten a burger and are experiencing the symptoms of E. coli 0157:H7 food poisoning, including diarrhea that may be bloody, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and fever, please see a health care provider immediately. Make sure you cook all ground meat products to 160 degrees F and test the temperature using a meat thermometer.
