The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns the public to stay vigilant despite the investigation completion of recalled ground beef in the United States.
Authorities say people should check their freezers as some might still be lurking around. They instruct people to look specifically for products recalled by JBS Tolleson, Inc., of Tolleson, Arizona. More particularly, watch out for establishment number "EST. 267" most usually found in the USDA mark.
Details Of Recalled Ground Beef
The ground beef in question was manufactured and packaged between July 26, 2018 and Sept. 7, 2018. The products were distributed to over 100 retail stores under different brand names all over the country.
All in all, the company recalled about 6.9 million pounds of beef in October 2018, followed by another 5.2 million pounds worth of products on Dec. 4, 2018. The government released a list of all stores where the beef was sold for public information and safety.
Information Upon Completion Of Investigation
As per the numbers, a total of 403 people suffered from infections caused by Salmonella. Moreover, 117 people were admitted in hospitals. The reports of illness started from Aug. 5, 2018 and halted by Feb. 8, 2019. Fortunately, there were no reports of deaths.
"As of March 22, 2019, this outbreak appears to be over," the CDC writes.
What To Do In The Midst Of The Outbreak
Aside from checking freezers, it is important to take necessary steps to ensure that families are spared from the outbreak. CDC recommends some tips and to-do's. First, if one finds the recalled ground beef in their homes, bring it back to the store of purchase, or simply, dump them in the garbage. If someone in the family or community shows signs and symptoms of infection related to ground beef consumption, consult a healthcare professional. The public may call the JBS USA Consumer Hotline at (800) 727-2333 if there are any concerns or questions about the recalled ground beef.
CDC also have tips for business owners, including retails outlets and restaurants. These establishments should thoroughly check their storage and freezers for the recalled products. They should not sell, cook, or serve these products to the public at all. Whenever possible, authorities recommend that these stores call to their customers who have been sold with the recalled products.
Lastly, for both households and restaurant owners/staff, CDC says it is a must to cook ground beef in a safe and sanitary manner to avoid any food-related disease. When cooking at home, use a thermometer and make sure to cook the beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. People who order beef in restaurants should ask the servers to ensure that their beef dish orders be cooked in the said internal temperature as well.
The battle might seem finished with the investigations coming to a close, but it is critical that the public be warned about the possible dangers that might still occur. Looking at freezers may look like an insignificant step to take, but it is a valuable measure to put a dot in this recall case.
