The E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s has officially ended, according to an announcement from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday. The CDC identified fresh, slivered onions used by McDonald’s as the likely source of the contamination, confirming earlier suspicions. Beef had previously been ruled out as a cause.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also concluded its investigation, providing what McDonald’s described as “certainty and validation from leading health authorities, which will be meaningful for our customers and communities.”
The CDC reported 104 confirmed cases of illness across 14 states, though the actual number may be higher, as many individuals recover without seeking medical attention or testing for E. coli. In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s ceased sourcing onions from a Colorado facility operated by supplier Taylor Farms, which had issued a recall during the crisis.
A McDonald’s spokesperson noted in a briefing that the exact point at which E. coli entered the supply chain remains unclear. As a precaution, the company has suspended sourcing from both the facility that processed the onions and the originating farm.
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The fast-food giant is collaborating with health authorities and industry groups to assess whether additional safety measures are needed for produce. “We remain confident in our supply-chain processes,” the company stated.
Following the outbreak’s disclosure on October 22, McDonald’s temporarily removed Quarter Pounders, which use the slivered onions, from many locations. The company has since pledged $100 million to support franchisees and rebuild customer trust. Recently, McDonald’s has sought to attract diners with promotions like the limited-time McRib and a new value menu.
