35,000 pounds of ground beef products are being recalled by a South Gate, California establishment South Gate Meat Co. These products are possible tainted with E. coli O157:H7, according to an announcement made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s FSIS recently. A positive result for E. coli was discovered when FSIS performed microbiological sampling. To date, no illnesses have been reported which are linked to these recalled products.
The packages in question bear establishment number “EST. 6217″ inside the USDA mark of inspection. These products were shipped to restaurants around the Orange County area and Los Angeles, and were produced between the dates of June 7, 2010 and June 21, 2010. The South Gate Meat Co. products affected are:
*20-, 30- and 40-pound bulk packages of “SOUTH GATE MEAT CO. GROUND BEEF.”
*30-, 40-, and 50-pound bulk packages of “SOUTH GATE MEAT CO. COARSE GROUND BEEF.”
*10- and 20-pound packages of “SOUTH GATE MEAT CO. GROUND BEEF PATTIES.”
Why have there been so many problems with contaminated beef recently? Part of the problems are due to the sourcing of fat and gristle by slaughterhouses that is combined with better quality cuts of meat that results in the mixes you see in your grocery store, such as “80% lean,” “90% lean,” and so on. The percentage of the meat that is not lean often comes from trimmings shipped in from various other plants. Each plant is actually more prone to E. coli food poisoning bacteria and other bacteria because cows are often slaughtered in close proximity to their own waste.
Those with questions or concerns about this recall are asked to call South Gate’s owner, John Dritsas, or vice president Angelo Dritsas at 323-564-1701.
E. coli bacteria usually produces mild symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea. Certain individuals are at an increased risk of experiencing serious complications including the elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of E. coli food poisoning should seek medical attention. If you have become ill after eating contaminated products involved in a recall, contact a Buffalo personal injury attorney to learn about any rights you may have. An experienced food poisoning attorney can help to ensure your properly reimbursed for any medical bills, health issues, lost wages and possibly other financial compensation.
