The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have identified fresh slivered onions served on McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers as the probable cause of an E. coli outbreak that has resulted in one fatality and affected individuals across multiple states. The outbreak has been linked to 90 cases of illness and 27 hospitalizations, with additional cases being reported.

However, the CDC has reassured the public that the current risk is "very low," as the illnesses were reported prior to the removal of the implicated onions from food service establishments. The CDC has stated that there is no need for the public to avoid onions or onion-containing foods.

Last week, Taylor Farms, a supplier of the onions, initiated a recall of four onion products due to potential E. coli contamination. In response, McDonald's locations in the affected areas have suspended the use of slivered onions, while other fast-food chains, including Burger King, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC, have voluntarily removed fresh onions from their menus in certain locations. The CDC has indicated that it is unlikely that the recalled onions reached grocery stores or were sold directly to consumers. The FDA has also clarified that diced onions used at McDonald's have not been associated with this outbreak.

The investigation into the outbreak began on October 22, with beef patties used in Quarter Pounders being part of the inquiry. However, the Colorado Department of Agriculture announced on Sunday that the fresh beef patties used for Quarter Pounders tested negative for E. coli. The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service also stated on Monday that there was no evidence to suggest ground beef as the likely source of the E. coli outbreak.

McDonald's announced on Sunday that they would resume sales of Quarter Pounders in all their restaurants this week. However, the approximately 900 restaurants that previously received slivered onions from Taylor Farms will not include onions in these sandwiches.

The E. coli outbreak, which has been traced back to fresh slivered onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers, has raised significant concerns regarding food safety. The CDC and FDA have been working diligently to identify the source of the contamination and to ensure that the public is informed about the risks associated with the outbreak. The identification of the onions as the likely source has allowed for targeted recalls and precautionary measures to be taken by fast-food chains to protect their customers.

The CDC's reassurance that the current risk to the public is very low is based on the fact that the illnesses were reported before the affected onions were removed from circulation. This suggests that the contamination has been contained and that the risk of further illnesses is minimal. However, the CDC advises the public to remain vigilant and to follow proper food handling and preparation guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses.

The recall of the four onion products by Taylor Farms highlights the importance of supplier accountability in the food industry. The proactive response by McDonald's and other fast-food chains to remove fresh onions from their menus demonstrates a commitment to customer safety and a willingness to take necessary precautions to protect public health.

The investigation into the E. coli outbreak has been thorough, with various food items, including beef patties, being examined as potential sources of the contamination. The negative test results for the beef patties used in Quarter Pounders and the lack of evidence linking ground beef to the outbreak have helped to narrow down the focus of the investigation and to identify the onions as the likely source.

McDonald's decision to resume sales of Quarter Pounders, with the exception of the restaurants that received onions from Taylor Farms, indicates that the company is confident in the safety of its products. The exclusion of onions from the sandwiches in the affected restaurants is a precautionary measure to ensure that customers are not exposed to any potential risk.

The E. coli outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for constant vigilance in the food industry. It highlights the role of regulatory bodies like the CDC and FDA in protecting public health and the responsibility of food suppliers and service establishments in ensuring the safety of their products.

As the investigation continues and more information becomes available, it is crucial for the public to stay informed and to follow the guidance provided by health authorities. The CDC and FDA will continue to monitor the situation and to provide updates as needed to ensure that the public is protected and that any further risks are minimized.

In conclusion, the E. coli outbreak linked to fresh slivered onions in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers has been a significant event in the realm of food safety. The swift identification of the source, the targeted recalls, and the precautionary measures taken by fast-food chains have been essential in containing the outbreak and minimizing the risk to the public. It is a testament to the importance of collaboration between regulatory bodies, food suppliers, and service establishments in ensuring the safety of the food supply chain and protecting public health.