WASHINGTON, July 3, 2001--Sierra Meat Co., a
Reno, Nev., firm, is voluntarily recalling approximately 2,400 pounds of
fresh ground beef patties that may be contaminated with E. coli
O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection
Service announced today.
The ground beef products being recalled are packed in 12 lb. cases
labeled "SIERRA MEAT COMPANY GROUND BEEF PATTIES." Each case is
marked with a date of "June 27 01" and bears the establishment
number "EST. 1438" inside the USDA seal of inspection.
The ground beef was produced on June 27 and distributed to food service
establishments, such as hotels and restaurants, in Nevada.
"Because of the potential for foodborne illness, we want consumers
to be aware of the recall," said Margaret O’K. Glavin, acting FSIS
administrator. "Diners may wish to ask if meals made with ground beef
patties contain the recalled product."
The problem was discovered through routine FSIS microbiological
sampling.
E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacteria that can cause
bloody diarrhea and dehydration. The very young, the elderly, and persons
with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne
illness.
FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption
of this product. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a
physician.
Consumers and media with questions about the recall may contact Roy
Shuey, operations manager, Sierra Meat Co., at (775) 322-4073, ext. 108.
Consumers with food safety questions can phone the toll-free USDA Meat
and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. The hotline can be reached from 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday, and recorded food
safety messages are available 24 hours a day.
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