McDonald’s US head vows to improve safety after E. coli outbreak, more cases expected By Reuters

Written by Ananya Mariam Rajesh and Waylon Cunningham

McDonald’s is facing a crisis as it deals with an E. coli outbreak linked to Quarter Pounder burgers that has resulted in one death and almost 50 illnesses. The fast-food chain has taken swift action by removing the affected menu item from restaurants in twelve states across the West and Midwest.

The outbreak has impacted people in these regions, with several individuals hospitalized due to severe complications. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is actively investigating the situation, with McDonald’s confirming that the outbreak is confined to the United States.

CDC spokesman Tom Skinner expressed concerns about the potential for more cases to emerge but praised McDonald’s for its quick response in trying to mitigate further infections. Previous E. coli incidents at major fast-food chains have led to consumer backlash lasting for months.

McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger acknowledged the need to rebuild trust with the public after removing the Quarter Pounder from a significant portion of its U.S. restaurants. The affected states include Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

The CDC and McDonald’s are closely examining the company’s onion and beef patty supplies to identify the source of the outbreak. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has indicated that the onions are likely responsible for the illnesses, while testing is ongoing on the beef samples.

Despite McDonald’s suppliers conducting frequent product testing within the CDC’s specified timeframe, the specific E. coli strain was not detected. Food safety attorney Bill Marler emphasized the seriousness of the outbreak and the potential legal ramifications for McDonald’s.

Analysts are monitoring the situation closely, noting the impact on McDonald’s stock and potential repercussions on the brand’s reputation. McDonald’s executives are focused on restoring consumer confidence in the wake of the outbreak.

Historically, E. coli outbreaks have significantly impacted sales at fast-food chains, with Chipotle and Jack in the Box facing prolonged challenges in the aftermath. McDonald’s is working to address the current crisis and prevent further harm to its business.

Chipotle shares suffered a significant decline following their E. coli incident, highlighting the potential financial impact of food safety crises. While McDonald’s may face challenges in the short term, the long-term implications remain uncertain.