Ground beef recalled in 6 states due to potential E. coli contamination
Ground beef recalled in 6 states due to potential E. coli contamination

The recall involves approximately 2,855 pounds of grass-fed ground beef produced by Mountain West Food Group, a meat processor based in Heyburn, Idaho. The issue was identified during routine testing by the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

What Products Are Affected

The recalled product is:

  • Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef

  • Package size: 16-ounce (1-pound) vacuum-sealed packages

  • Production date: December 16, 2025

  • “Freeze by” date: January 13, 2026

  • Establishment number: EST. 2083 (printed inside the USDA mark of inspection)

The products were distributed to retailers in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

Read more: Glico Recalls 6 Million Pocky and Chocolate Products After Spice Odor Detected

Reason for the Recall

FSIS testing detected Escherichia coli O26, a strain classified as a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). While less well known than E. coli O157:H7, O26 can still cause serious gastrointestinal illness and, in some cases, life-threatening complications.

As of the recall announcement, no confirmed illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected beef.

Health Risks Associated With E. Coli

Infections caused by STEC strains such as E. coli O26 can lead to symptoms including:

  • Diarrhea, which may be bloody

  • Severe stomach cramps

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Low-grade fever

Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can result in kidney failure. Symptoms may appear several days after exposure and, in some cases, weeks later.

Read more: Vietti Recalls Baked Beans in 23 States Due to Undeclared Soy – Full Recall List

What Consumers Should Do

FSIS urges consumers to not eat the recalled ground beef. Anyone who has purchased the affected product should either discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.

Food safety officials also remind consumers that ground beef should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to kill harmful bacteria, including E. coli.

Broader Food Safety Context

Ground beef recalls linked to E. coli are not uncommon in the U.S., as the grinding process can spread bacteria throughout the meat if contamination occurs. Federal agencies continue to rely on routine testing and traceability measures to identify and remove potentially unsafe products before illnesses become widespread.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact FSIS or consult the agency’s recall database for the most up-to-date information.