On June 3, 2025, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a public health alert due to potential contamination with Escherichia coli O157:H7 in ground beef distributed nationwide. The affected product is "Organic Rancher Organic Ground Beef 85% Lean 15% Fat," sold in one-pound packages, produced on May 22 and 23, 2025, with “Use or Freeze By” dates of June 19 and 20, 2025, and the establishment number "EST. 4027" printed inside the USDA inspection mark.

Although these products are no longer available in stores, authorities warn that some consumers may still have them in their refrigerators or freezers. It is advised not to consume them and to either discard the product or return it to the place of purchase.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps within 2 to 8 days of exposure. In severe cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure that primarily affects children under the age of five and older adults.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this batch of ground beef. However, FSIS urges consumers to remain alert to symptoms such as severe diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

This incident highlights the importance of safe food handling and cooking practices. FSIS recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria.

For more information or to report issues related to this product, consumers may contact Danny Desautels, president of NPC Processing, Inc., at 802-660-0496 or via email.

Food safety is a shared responsibility between producers, authorities, and consumers. Staying informed and following official recommendations is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses.