The Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Vantage Foods are recalling some mechanically tenderized steak for possible E. coli O157:H7 contamination. This type of steak has been injected with needles or blades to break up connective tissue, or has been injected with a marinade or tenderizer. This action can force pathogenic bacteria from the surface of the steak to the interior. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue.
The recalled products are Food Basics brand name. They are Mechanically Tenderized Hip Steak in variable sizes, with best before 2017OC17 and UPC number starting with 0 211030. The other recalled products is Mechanically Tenderized Steak FP in variable sizes, with best before 2017OC17 and UPC number starting with 0 224015. These steaks were sold in Food Basics supermarkets in Ontario.
This recall is a good reminder that all mechanically tenderized beef products, which must be labeled as such in the United States, should only be eaten after they are cooked to well done, or 160°F as tested by a food thermometer. There have been several outbreaks linked to these types of products in the United States over the years.
If you bought these products in Canada, don’t eat them. Throw them away in a sealed package, or take them back to the sober where you bought them for a full refund.
The symptoms of an E. coli infection can include nausea, abdominal cramps, severe diarrhea that can be bloody or watery, and a mild fever. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible.
