On September 25, 2007, the USDA-FSIS announced that Topps Meat Company, LLC was voluntarily recalling 331,582 pounds of ground beef patties due to possible contamination with E. coli O157:H7. By October 6, the amount of recalled ground beef patties had risen to 21.7 million pounds, one of the largest recalls of beef products in U.S. history. At least 40 cases of E. coli have been linked to the recalled beef patties. (Read about the Topps recall and a Topps lawsuit.)
The Topps recall forced FSIS to drastically change procedures to prevent massive recalls in the future. On October 23, 2007, FSIS released a strategic plan to combat E. coli 0157:H7. The plan called for testing and analysis of trim, a new checklist for verifying control, testing more domestic and imported ground beef components, more rapid recalls, routine testing, and ensuring the safety of imported beef. FSIS also promised greater working cooperation with federal partners, small plants, stakeholders, and public health partners.
Under the new program, FSIS will consider establishment volume and any positive tests for E. coli 0157:H7 at the establishment in the past 120 days. FSIS inspectors will take frequent samples, ranging from 4 to 24 samples annually. This new protocol for testing became effective on January 1, 2008.
Pritzker | Ruohonen, a leading foodborne illness litigation law firm, is investigating cases of E. coli 0157:H7. The firm has a national reputation and has recovered millions for victims of foodborne illness. To contact an E. coli lawyer at the firm, please call toll-free at 1-888-377-8900 or submit the firm's free case consultation form.
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