Recall Notice: Raw Ground Beef Possibly Contaminated with E. coli O26
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced a recall of approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products from Mountain West Food Group, LLC, based in Heyburn, Idaho. The recall is due to potential contamination with E. coli O26.
Details of the Recalled Product:
- Product: FORWARD FARMS GRASS-FED GROUND BEEF
- Packaging: 16-ounce (1 pound) vacuum-sealed packages
- Production Date: December 16, 2025
- “USE OR FREEZE BY” Date: 01/13/26
- Establishment Number: EST 2083 (printed on the packaging)
- Distributed to: California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington
Reason for Recall:
Routine FSIS testing detected the presence of E. coli O26 in the product. While there are no confirmed reports of illness linked to this recall, E. coli O26 is a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) that can cause severe illness.
Health Risks:
- Symptoms: Diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting, and severe cases may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure.
- At-risk Groups: Children under 5, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Action: Seek immediate emergency medical care if symptoms such as easy bruising, pallor, or decreased urine output occur.
Consumer Guidance:
- Do not consume recalled products.
- Throw away or return the product to the place of purchase.
- Cook all ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to ensure safety.
Contact Information:
- Mountain West Food Group, LLC: Jeremy Anderson, CEO
Phone: 208-679-3765 Email: [email protected]
- USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline: 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854)
Email: [email protected] Consumer Complaint System: foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/
For further updates and retail distribution lists, visit the FSIS recalls page at fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
