JBS Tolleson Inc. is recalling more than 5.1 million pounds of raw beef products that may be tainted with salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service said Dec. 4.
The recalled beef was produced and packaged between July 26 and Sept. 7, according to the service. The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “EST. 267” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations and institutions nationwide and include the brands Kroger, Cedar River Farms, Grass Run Farms and JBS generic.
This is an expansion of a recall that was issued in October for the same reason.
The total amount of “non-intact raw beef products” that have been recalled now exceeds more than 12 million pounds.
The recalled beef is linked to an outbreak of salmonella that, as of Nov. 15, has caused 246 people to become sick in 25 states, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are no reported deaths, but 56 people have been hospitalized.
“FSIS is continuing to investigate illnesses associated with this widespread outbreak, and additional product from other companies may also be recalled,” the recall notice said.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service said it’s concerned that consumers may unknowingly have recalled beef in their freezer. The department urges customers who have purchased these products not to consume them. All of the recalled items should either be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
In addition, “only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Other cuts of beef should be cooked to a temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and allowed to rest for at least three minutes,” the USDA said.
The USDA also suggested using a food thermometer that measures internal temperatures. The thermometer ensures that ground beef or other cuts of beef are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria.
Symptoms of salmonella usually begin within 12 to 72 hours of consuming contaminated food. These can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever that last between four and seven days. Most people recover on their own, but those who experience persistent diarrhea should visit the hospital.
Consumers with any questions about the recall can contact the JBS USA Consumer Hotline at (800) 727-2333.
Written by Debra Goldschmidt for CNN. Additional reporting by Simplemost staff.
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