Consumers Reminded to Check Their Freezers
For Recalled Ground Beef Patties

(Santa Ana) – The Orange County Health Care Agency reminds all consumers to check their freezers for ground beef patties that have been recalled due to possible contamination with E. coli O157:H7, a bacteria that can cause serious illness.

The recall of frozen ground beef patties produced by Merced-based Richwood Meat Company, Inc., was announced by the California Department of Health Services on April 20, 2007, after E. coli O157:H7 was detected in a product sample. The recalled ground beef patties were produced on April 28, 2006 and have been linked to several E. coli cases in Napa County. There have been no E. coli cases in Orange County associated with this product, but State officials are concerned that the ground beef patties might still be in some home freezers or even in retail stores.

The ground beef patties were marketed under several brands including Fireriver, Ritz Food Service, Chef’s Pride and Richwood Meat Company. A complete list of the recalled products is available on the California Department of Health Services website at www.dhs.ca.gov. The products should be thrown away or returned to their place of purchase, if known.

E. coli O157 infection can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, with some patients at risk for developing more severe complications that can include kidney failure. Those most at risk for severe complications include young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems.
 

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