OMAHA, NEBRASKA – A recent health alert has been issued for Greater Omaha ground beef products potentially contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, a dangerous strain known for causing severe intestinal infections in humans. The raw ground beef items in question were produced and packaged on March 28, 2024, with a “Use/Freeze by” date of April 22, 2024, and bear the mark “EST.960A” inside the USDA inspection label.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has identified the affected ground beef as having been distributed to various restaurants and retail locations across the nation. The FSIS urges caution for consumers in possession of the following products:
– 10-lb. ground beef chub, labeled as GROUND BEEF 85 FINE GRIND 10#/6
– 5-lb. ground beef chub, labeled as GROUND BEEF GOHERF GB RIB BRISKET CHUCK CRAFT BURGER 5LB
– 5-lb. ground beef chub, labeled as Greater Omaha 100% ALL NATURAL 5 LBS. GOURMET BLEND RIB BRISKET CHUCK
– 5-lb. ground beef chub, labeled as GROUND BEEF GOHERF GB 81 FINE GRIND 5#/12 EXACT WEIGHT
– 4-pack 8-oz ground beef patties, labeled as GROUND BEEF GOANG GB Patty 8OZ Homestyle Rib/Brisket/CH
If any of these products are found in consumer freezers, the FSIS advises against consumption. Instead, individuals should dispose of the products or return them to the point of purchase as a precautionary measure.
While there have been no confirmed reports of illness associated with this alert, individuals who experience any symptoms after consuming the ground beef are advised to seek medical attention. E. coli infections can lead to dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, with symptoms typically appearing within three to four days of exposure.
In more severe cases, patients may develop kidney failure, particularly children under 5 years old and older adults are at higher risk. Any individual experiencing symptoms should promptly consult a healthcare provider. For inquiries regarding the health alert, individuals can reach out to Gina Adami, a representative from Greater Omaha Packing Co., Inc., at 402-575-4702 or via email at gadami@gmail.com. Additionally, questions about food safety can be directed to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or email MPHotline@usda.gov. Consumers can also report issues with meat, poultry, or egg products through the Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System online.