Ground beef recalled in 6 states over possible E. coli contamination

An Idaho-based company is recalling ground beef in six states over concerns that it may be contaminated with E. coli.

The recallannounced Saturday by the U.S. Department of Agricultureaffects 2,855 pounds of ground beef sold by HeyburnIdaho-based Mountain West Food Group to distributors in the following states: 

• California
• Colorado
• Idaho
• Montana
• Pennsylvania 
• Washington
  

The recalled producta 16-oz.vacuum-sealed package of grass-fed ground beefhas a label that says "Forward Farms"; a use or freeze by date of 01/13/26 and "EST 2083" printed on the side of the packagingaccording to the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

FSIS said it discovered the issue during routine testingwhen sampling results revealed the presence of E. coli O26a strain of the bacterium that can cause diarrhea and vomitingandin more severe casesa severe infection.

No illnesses have been reported thus far. Anyone who is concerned about a potential illness should contact their health care providerFSIS said.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled ground beef are advised to throw it away or return it to the place where they purchased itthe agency said.