Ground Beef Sold In PA Recalled Over E.Coli Risk

PENNSYLVANIA — Nearly 3,000 pounds of raw ground beef distributed to Pennsylvania and five other states is being recalled because it is possibly contaminated with a strain of E. coli, federal authorities said.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service division said that Mountain West Food Group is recalling 2,855 pounds of Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef that was produced earlier this month.

The recalled products are 16-ounce vacuum sealed packages containing "Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef" and "Use or freeze by 01/13/26 EST 2083" printed on the side of the packaging.

This is an image of the product label:

In addition to Pennsylvania, the meat was shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Washington who then shipped it to retailers.

Routine Food Safety and Inspection Service testing showed the presence of E. coli 026, which can cause illness up to 34 days after exposure to the organism. Most people infected with it can develop diarrhea and vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample. In extreme cases, a form of kidney failure can occur.

No illnesses from the contaminated products have been reported, but the USDA inspection service is concerned that some of the contaminated product may be in peoples' refrigerators or freezers. Those who have purchased the meat are urged not to consume it and to either return it to the place of purchase.

When available, the retail distribution list will be posted on the inspection service website.