Onion Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Burgers: What We Know

The multi-state E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers continues to grow, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Here’s what we know so far:

The Likely Source: Slivered Onions

Drinking leftovers is one thing, but what about McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers without the onions? Slivered onions are the likely source of this ongoing E. coli outbreak.

The Outbreak and Restaurant Precautions

When the CDC first announced the outbreak on October 22, onions and beef patties were both suspect. However, recent indications from the CDC and McDonald’s itself point towards onions as the primary culprit.

On October 23, McDonald’s supplier Taylor Farms recalled peeled and diced yellow onion products, as well as several other fast-food chains pulled onions from their menus as a precaution. Thus far, no other restaurants have been linked to the outbreak.

The Numbers are Adding Up

As of Wednesday’s CDC update, the outbreak has grown to include 90 cases, with 27 hospitalizations and one death. These cases have been reported across 13 states.

Newly reported illnesses had onsets prior to the October 23 onion recall, with the most recent onset occurring on October 16. The CDC expects more illnesses to be reported in the coming weeks as it can take up to four weeks to connect these cases to an E. coli outbreak.

Health Agencies and Industry Updates

The CDC believes the risk to the public remains low due to McDonald’s and Taylor Farms product actions. McDonald’s has confirmed that their Quarter Pounders, now onion-free, will return to menus at affected restaurants this week.

Over 900 restaurants had received onions from Taylor Farms, and these affected areas include various states in the central and southwestern regions of the U.S.

What This Means for Consumers

If you’ve eaten a Quarter Pounder with onions from a participating restaurant in the last few weeks, you should be aware of the potential risks. Those experiencing bothersome symptoms should seek medical attention.

Given the extent of the outbreak, it’s important to follow updates closely and avoid consuming onions if you think they might be affected.

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For the latest health advisories, always refer to your local health department and the CDC.

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