There's an Active E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's—Here's What to Know

If you’re a fan of McDonald’s, read on for more information.

a photo of a quarter pounder
Photo:

Courtesy of Brand. EatingWell design.

The Food and Drug Administration just alerted consumers of an active E. coli outbreak investigation impacting 12 states. The source of this outbreak is being linked to a popular McDonald’s sandwich.

The McDonald’s Quarter Pounder has likely been the cause of 75 illnesses, including 22 hospitalizations and 1 death. The sandwich is potentially contaminated with E. coli bacteria likely due to the chain's supplier of slivered onions. A recall on the Taylor Farms raw yellow onions sent to restaurants was just announced due to a potential E. coli contamination. This specifically impacts McDonald's locations as well as other restaurant chains partnered with the supplier.

McDonald’s customers in the following states have been affected by this recall: Colorado, Kansas, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico and Oklahoma, Utah and Wyoming.

E. coli bacteria can cause serious foodborne illness, with common symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. It can be more severe for young children, those age 65 or older and for immunocompromised individuals. While the CDC notes this outbreak as "very low" risk to the public at this time, if you recently ate a Quarter Pounder at McDonald’s and are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately.

EatingWell will continue to keep you updated on the latest information surrounding this multistate outbreak and connected recall. 

Was this page helpful?
Sources
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
  1. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Outbreak investigation of E. coli O157:H7: McDonald’s Quarter Pounders (October 2024).

  2. US Foods. Taylor Farms recall of onions.

  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders.

Related Articles