Six states on Saturday recalled nearly 3,000 pounds of ground beef due to possible E. coli contamination, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said.
Idaho-based Mountain West Food Group is recalling 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef sold under the Forward Farms brand in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania and Washington state. According to a release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service on December 27, routine inspections found the presence of E. coli O26 in ground beef samples. The recalled 16-ounce packages of ground beef were produced on December 16. This can be identified by a use or freeze date of January 13, 2026 and “EST 2083” listed on the packaging.
The USDA said there have been no confirmed reports of illness from consuming the product. To be on the safe side, consumers should dispose of ground beef properly or return it to the place of purchase. Always wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
E. coli is a bacterium that occurs naturally in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, some can cause serious illness. Due to the contamination, the USDA recommends that people in these six states who consume the affected ground beef monitor themselves for signs of E. coli infection. Harmful strains of bacteria can cause symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Most healthy adults tend to recover within a week of infection, but E. coli is especially dangerous for young children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems. In severe cases, E. coli can cause kidney failure. If symptoms occur, especially if they persist, affected individuals should contact a health care provider.