Idaho Firm Issues Recall for Nearly 3,000 Pounds of Ground Beef Due to E. Coli Contamination Risk

An Idaho-based company is recalling nearly 3,000 pounds of raw ground beef due to potential contamination with E. coli bacteria. This recall is a significant public health concern, as E. coli can lead to serious illness.

The recall specifically involves 16-ounce vacuum-sealed packages labeled “Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef.” These packages were produced on December 16 and carry a label instructing customers to use or freeze the meat by January 13. Additionally, the affected beef packages display the establishment number “EST 2083” on their sides, making it easier for consumers to identify the recalled products.

Mountain West Food Group, located in Heyburn, Idaho, is the producer of this meat. The affected products were distributed to various states, including California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), which announced the recall on Saturday, has not disclosed which retailers may have sold the contaminated meat. Attempts to reach both the USDA and Mountain West Food Group for further information were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to inquiries from The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Fortunately, the USDA has reported that there have been no confirmed cases of illness linked to the consumption of this meat. The contamination issue was identified during routine testing, highlighting the importance of food safety protocols in preventing potential outbreaks.

The specific strain of E. coli found in the beef can cause illness within 28 days of exposure. Symptoms typically include severe diarrhea, which may be bloody, and vomiting. Diagnosis of an E. coli infection is usually confirmed through a stool sample, emphasizing the need for medical attention if symptoms arise.

For consumers who may have purchased the affected products, the USDA advises either discarding the meat or returning it to the point of purchase for a refund. Additionally, the agency recommends that all customers ensure ground beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to eliminate any potential pathogens.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

An Idaho-based company is recalling nearly 3,000 pounds of raw ground beef due to potential contamination with E. coli bacteria. This recall is a significant public health concern, as E. coli can lead to serious illness.

The recall specifically involves 16-ounce vacuum-sealed packages labeled “Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef.” These packages were produced on December 16 and carry a label instructing customers to use or freeze the meat by January 13. Additionally, the affected beef packages display the establishment number “EST 2083” on their sides, making it easier for consumers to identify the recalled products.

Mountain West Food Group, located in Heyburn, Idaho, is the producer of this meat. The affected products were distributed to various states, including California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), which announced the recall on Saturday, has not disclosed which retailers may have sold the contaminated meat. Attempts to reach both the USDA and Mountain West Food Group for further information were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to inquiries from The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Fortunately, the USDA has reported that there have been no confirmed cases of illness linked to the consumption of this meat. The contamination issue was identified during routine testing, highlighting the importance of food safety protocols in preventing potential outbreaks.

The specific strain of E. coli found in the beef can cause illness within 28 days of exposure. Symptoms typically include severe diarrhea, which may be bloody, and vomiting. Diagnosis of an E. coli infection is usually confirmed through a stool sample, emphasizing the need for medical attention if symptoms arise.

For consumers who may have purchased the affected products, the USDA advises either discarding the meat or returning it to the point of purchase for a refund. Additionally, the agency recommends that all customers ensure ground beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to eliminate any potential pathogens.

Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.