McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak

In late October 2024, McDonald’s faced an E. coli outbreak linked to its Quarter Pounder hamburger. Contaminated slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms were identified as the likely source, causing illnesses in at least 90 individuals across multiple states and resulting in one tragic death, as stated by the Washington Department of Health. At Bob Katz Law, located in Baltimore, MD, we are committed to helping victims of foodborne illnesses hold negligent parties accountable for the harm caused.

What We Know About McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak

Source of Contamination

The outbreak was traced to slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms’ Colorado Springs plant. These onions were used in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders at certain locations. McDonald’s responded by removing the Quarter Pounder from menus and halting onion sourcing from Taylor Farms. According to the CDC, Taylor Farms also issued a recall to prevent further contamination.

Symptoms
E. coli infections can cause a range of severe symptoms. In this outbreak, reported symptoms included:

• Watery diarrhea, often turning bloody after 1–3 days
• Abdominal cramps and tenderness
• Low-grade fever

Impact on Victims

The outbreak sickened 90 individuals, with most cases in Colorado and others across the Midwest. Symptoms included severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever, with some victims developing Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a dangerous complication that can lead to kidney failure. Tragically, one person lost their life, and others face prolonged health issues, including hospitalization and long-term damage.

What Is E. Coli?

1. coli (Escherichia coli) is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While many strains are harmless, certain types, such as E. coli O157:H7, produce powerful toxins that can cause severe foodborne illness. Contamination typically occurs through:

• Undercooked meat (e.g., ground beef)
• Fresh produce exposed to contaminated water
• Improper food handling during processing or preparation

Once ingested, E. coli bacteria multiply, causing symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening complications like kidney failure. The O157:H7 strain involved in this outbreak is particularly harmful due to its connection with severe conditions like HUS.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Although anyone can be affected by E. coli, certain populations face a higher risk of severe illness or complications:

• Young children (especially under age 5)
• Elderly adults
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• Pregnant women

These groups are more likely to experience complications such as dehydration, HUS, or long-term kidney damage. During the McDonald’s outbreak, it was reported that several of the victims were children, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and safety measures to prevent such incidents.

Legal Implications for High-Risk Victims

When vulnerable individuals contract illnesses due to contaminated food, the consequences can be devastating—physically, emotionally, and financially. This is where legal action becomes critical to ensure proper compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

How Did McDonald’s Respond to the E. Coli Outbreak?

In response to the contamination, McDonald’s removed the Quarter Pounder from its menus and stopped sourcing onions from Taylor Farms, which had already recalled the affected products. However, these measures came too late for the victims who suffered serious illnesses. The outbreak underscores the need for corporations to take greater precautions to ensure food safety throughout their supply chains. When such failures occur, affected individuals have the right to seek compensation for their suffering.

Can You Hold McDonald’s Legally Accountable for E. Coli Illnesses?

Yes, you can hold McDonald’s legally accountable for illnesses caused by this outbreak. Restaurants and food suppliers have a duty to ensure that the products they serve are safe for consumption. When contaminated ingredients enter the supply chain, it often points to failures in quality control, proper sanitation, or food safety standards.

Victims of the outbreak may file claims based on the following:

• Product liability: Holding Taylor Farms or McDonald’s responsible for distributing and serving contaminated onions.
• Negligence: Failure to prevent contamination through adequate food safety measures.
• Wrongful death claims: In cases where victims tragically lost their lives.

Please read What To Do If You Believe You Have Suffered From Food Poisoning

How Can You Protect Yourself From E. Coli?

While food safety is primarily the responsibility of businesses like McDonald’s and their suppliers, individuals can reduce their risk by:

• Cooking meat thoroughly to 160°F.
• Washing produce under running water.
• Avoiding cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce.
• Practicing hand hygiene when handling food.
• Avoiding high-risk foods like unpasteurized dairy or undercooked meats.

Many E. coli outbreaks stem from factors beyond your control, such as contaminated supply chains. When businesses fall short in their obligation to protect consumers, they must be held accountable.

Seek Justice After an E. Coli Outbreak

At Bob Katz Law, we fight for victims of foodborne illnesses like the McDonald’s E. coli outbreak. Contact us by calling us at 1-888-540-2599 or visit 1001 Fleet St, Suite 525, Baltimore, MD 21202.

Timothy J. Capurso

Timothy J. Capurso is chair of the firm’s Personal Injury Practice Group. He concentrates his practice on personal injury cases of all types, focusing on automobile accidents. His background includes litigating personal injury cases from inception through trial and settlement negotiations. 25+ years of experience.

Contact Timothy J. Capruso