Colorado labs test McDonald's beef patties for E. coli

DENVER (KDVR) — Following a deadly E.coli outbreak tied to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders, the Colorado Department of Agriculture tested the chain's beef patties for the bacteria.

On Oct. 22, the Colorado Department of Agriculture said its laboratories received multiple lots of McDonald's fresh and frozen patties from various Colorado locations that were associated with the deadly outbreak.

The department's microbiology lab analyzed dozens of subsamples of the patties and said they were all negative for E.coli. The Colorado Department of Agriculture said it has completed its testing of the beef and does not anticipate receiving more samples.

According to the department, the federal investigation into the outbreak has focused on the beef patties and onions. However, the department does not have information suggesting onions grown in Colorado were linked to the outbreak.

Onions from California-based company linked to outbreak

While Colorado onions were not linked to the outbreak, a California-based produce company was likely the source of the onions that had E.coli, according to officials.

McDonald’s officials said that Taylor Farms, of Salinas, California, sent onions to one distribution facility. U.S. Foods, a major wholesaler to restaurants across the country, said Thursday that Taylor Farms had issued a recall this week for peeled whole and diced yellow onions for potential E. coli contamination,

Taylor Farms also has a facility in Colorado, but it has not been linked to the investigation.

At least 75 sickened from outbreak

At last update on Friday, federal health officials said at least 75 people in 13 states have become sick following the outbreak.

One person from Mesa County has died.

Some people who got sick reported traveling to other states before their symptoms started. At least three people said they ate at McDonald’s during their travel. Illnesses were reported between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11.

Symptoms of E. coli poisoning can occur quickly, within a day or two of eating contaminated food. They typically include fever, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea and signs of dehydration — little or no peeing, increased thirst and dizziness. The infection is especially dangerous for children younger than 5, people who are elderly, pregnant or who have weakened immune systems.