1.8 Million Pounds Of Beef Recalled For Possible E. coli Contamination

Before you put your burgers on the grill this Memorial Day Weekend, make sure they weren't part of a massive beef recall due to possible E. coli contamination.

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service announced a recall for 1.8 million pounds of ground beef from Wolverine Packing Company. According to the recall, meat from the Detroit distributor was linked to 11 cases of E. coli bacteria since May 12. The FSIS has been working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the potential contamination.

The meat was shipped to restaurants in Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio, and it was produced between March 31 and April 18, according to the USDA. A full list of the recalled products, which have the establishment number "EST. 2574B,” is available online.

E. coli bacteria causes dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

For now, the agency recommends that consumers safely prepare all raw meats, including ground beef, and wash hands and cooking utensils with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw meat and poultry. The FSIS also said to consume beef only if it has been cooked to 160° F.