Los Angeles-based Sterling Pacific Meat Co., has recalled more than 3,500 pounds of ground beef products over food poisoning concerns. According to an Associated Press news report, the ground beef patties may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria. The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced the recall. So far, no illnesses have been reported. The recalled beef products were reportedly produced on May 18 and distributed to wholesalers who sold them to restaurants in California and Arizona. The ground beef patties were sold under the Fatburger and Stock Yards brands.

E. Coli Infections Potentially Fatal

E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium, which could cause serious health problems especially for young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The symptoms of an E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting and high fever. Some infections are mild, but others can be severe and even life-threatening. About 10 percent of those who are diagnosed with an E. coli infection develop a potentially life-threatening complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This could cause a person's kidneys to fail.

This year alone, more than 1 million pounds of beef have been recalled as a result of bacteria (salmonella, E. coli) contamination. Such contamination usually occurs as a result of food producers' failure to follow safety standards and proper manufacturing procedures. I'm particularly concerned about this beef recall because the beef was distributed to several local wholesalers here in California, who in turn distributed the meat to local restaurants.

Los Angeles Food Poisoning Attorneys

If you or a loved one has become ill because of this contaminated meat, please consult with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation. If you still have the food or the meat that caused your illness, please preserve it so it can be lab-tested for the presence of bacteria. If you have been sickened, the first step you should take is go to your doctor and get the necessary treatment to avoid health complications. It's always a good idea to also report the food poisoning incident to your local health care agency.

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