Mountain West Food Group Recalls 2,855 Pounds of Ground Beef

Idaho-based Mountain West Food Group LLC has initiated a recall of approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products distributed across six states due to potential contamination with E. coli O26. The announcement was made by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) on December 27, 2023.

The affected products include “Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef,” which was manufactured on December 16, 2023, and has a designated use-by date of January 13, 2026. These items were shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

The FSIS classified this recall as “High-Class I,” which is the highest level in the three-tier recall classification system established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This classification indicates there is a “reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.”

Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for the recalled products. The FSIS recommends that anyone who has purchased these ground beef items should not consume them and should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

In light of this recall, consumers are reminded of the importance of food safety practices. E. coli O26 can cause severe gastrointestinal illness and is particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Mountain West Food Group LLC is cooperating with the FSIS to ensure the safety of its products and has expressed its commitment to consumer health. The company advises anyone with questions regarding the recall to contact their customer service department for further information.

This incident underscores the critical need for vigilance in food safety practices and reinforces the role of regulatory agencies in monitoring food products to protect public health.