Massachusetts Firm Recalls Beef Products Due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-002-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH

Congressional and Public Affairs
(202) 720-9113
Bryn Burkard

WASHINGTON, January 11, 2010 - Adams Farm Slaughterhouse, LLC., an Athol, Mass., establishment, is recalling approximately 2,574 pounds of beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

This recall was initiated after the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) confirmed a positive ground beef sample for E. coli O157:H7, which it collected during an epidemiological investigation. Working in conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), FSIS determined that there is an association between the ground beef products and an illness in the state of Massachusetts. FSIS is continuing to work with the MDPH on the investigation. Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult a physician.

The following products are subject to recall:

1,025-pounds of "Beef Cuts and Ground" packed for Mazzarese.
697-pounds of "Beef Cuts and Ground" packed for Side Hill Farm.
852-pounds of "Beef Cuts and Ground" packed for Sweet Water Farm.

Each package bears a label with the establishment number "EST. 5497" inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as the packaging date of "11/11/2009." The beef products were distributed to private owners on three separate farms in the state of Massachusetts.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.