Fresh produce is the suspected cause of two E. coli outbreaks, one in Canada where at least 16 people have been sickened and one in Ohio where five people had confirmed cases of E.coli 0157:H7 poisoning and one additional case was suspected. In Canada, the outbreak is now considered nationwide, with six cases in New Brunswick and and five each in Nova Scotia and Ontario. In Ohio, leafy greens served at a Longhorn Steakhouse were the suspected cause of illnesses which took place in in mid-December. In both outbreaks, authorities believe the produce was tainted when it arrived at restaurants where it was served. The perishable nature of fresh produce has posed traceback challenges in Canada. Luc Erjavec of the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association, told FoodBeat that the … [Read more...]
Longhorn Steakhouse Associated With Ohio E.coli Outbreak
A Longhorn Steakhouse restaurant in the Cincinnati area has been associated with a December E.coli outbreak with five confirmed cases and one probable case. The likely source of the outbreak was leafy greens and because officials believe there is no current threat to public health the investigation into the outbreak is closed. It is not unusual for leafy greens to be contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7 . In November, an E.coli outbreak linked to spinach and spring mix salad greens that were sold at grocery stores sickened 33 people in five states. E. coli bacteria live in the intestines of animals and are shed in feces. There are many possible contamination points from farm to table such as soil amendments, irrigation water and hygiene of workers who harvest, package, transport, … [Read more...]
