E.Coli Tainted Meat Recalled By Valley Meat Company

Nearly one million pounds of possibly contaminated E.coli tainted meat has been recalled by Valley Meat Company of Modesto.

Friday morning, the company said it was working with its retailers to remove the contaminated products from the shelves.

This recalled ground beef was produced from October 2, 2009 to January 12, 2010. It was sold in California, Texas, Oregon, Arizona and internationally.

October 2, 2009?  Be sure to check the meat in your freezers. The 2009 products will carry a number between 275 and 365 before the “09″ ending. The affected 2010 products will carry a number between 001 and 012 before the “10″ ending.

7 people so far have become ill with a rare strain of E.coli 0157:H7.

E.coli 0157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. Older people and the very young are especially vulnerable.

For a complete listing of the recalled frozen ground beef, see the FSIS website. A list of retail distribution will also be posted there as soon as it’s available.

Valley Meat is asking all consumers to dispose of the contaminated meat products or return them for a refund.

Remember, to protect yourself and your family, always cook ground beef to a temperature of 160 degrees F. and always use a reliable meat thermometer to be sure that temperature is reached.

One last thought..Why weren’t we notified of this situation earlier?  This E.coli tainted meat recalled by Valley Meat Company was produced 10 months ago!