Topps Meat Co. announced Saturday it massively expanded its nationwide recall to include 21.7 million pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 as health officials investigate 25 illnesses in eight states.
The recall represents all products produced by Elizabeth, NJ-based Topps with a "sell by date" or "best if used by date" between September 25, 2007 and September 25, 2008. Last week the company recalled 331,582 pounds of ground beef produced on specific dates in June and July. (See Possible E. coli contamination prompts ground beef recall on Meatingplace.com, September 26, 2007.)
USDA said the recall is being expanded based on an additional positive product sample reported by the New York Health Department, reported illnesses and findings from a food safety assessment conducted by FSIS at the establishment.
There are currently 25 illnesses under investigation in Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Maine, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. An investigation carried out by the New York Department of Health in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention preceded last week's initial recall.
Products affected by this expanded recall were distributed to retail grocery stores and food service institutions throughout the United States. Based on consumption patterns, the company said it believes the vast majority of the recalled product has been consumed.
The recall list includes a wide range of frozen hamburger patties and other products that bear the USDA establishment number of EST 9748. For a complete list of products subject to recall click here.
"Topps is continuing to work with the USDA, state departments of health, retailers and distributors to ensure the safety of our consumers," said Vice President of Operations Geoffrey Livermore. "Additionally, we have augmented our internal quality control procedures with microbiologists and food safety experts."
This is the first product recall in Topps' 65-year history.
This is by far the largest recent E. coli-related ground beef recall, but follows a rash of recalls this summer that have USDA officials concerned and stepping up monitoring procedures. (See FSIS expands inspection efforts following E. coli spike on Meatingplace.com, September 5, 2007.)
By Janie Gabbett on Monday, October 01, 2007 For Meatingplace.com.