U.S. beef recall expanded, 18 illnesses suspected

CHICAGO (Reuters) – A Colorado meat company is expanding a recall of beef due to possible contamination by E.coli O157:H7 bacteria after an investigation found 18 illnesses may be linked to the meat, the U.S. Agriculture Department said on Sunday.

Greeley, Colorado-based JBS-Swift Beef Co is voluntarily expanding its June 24 recall to include about 380,000 lbs of assorted beef products, USDA said. The original recall was for 41,280 lbs.

The affected beef was produced on April 21 and was distributed nationally and internationally.

E.coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacteria that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and, in severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors, and persons with weak immune systems are at the most risk.

Consumers with questions can call 1-800-685-6328.

JBS Swift is a unit of Brazilian meat company JBS S.A..

How does beef become contaminated with E. Coli?  More than likely, the meat comes into contact with poop post-slaughter.  Now doesn’t that sound delicious?!  What a complete waste of a cows life.  Seriously, this stuff just makes me mad.