Products Recalled:
Kroger labeled Ground Beef Products

Product Information:
The products subject to recall include all varieties and weights of ground beef products bearing a Kroger label sold between May 21 and June 8 at Michigan and Columbus and Toledo, Ohio Kroger retail establishments. These ground beef products also include a sell-by date between "05/21/08" and "06/08/08." 

Recalling Firm:
The Kroger Co.
Cincinnati, OH

Consumers with questions may contact the company at (800) 632-6900.

Problem/Reason for Recall:
The recalled product may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  E. coli O157:H7 infections can cause diarrhea (bloody or nonbloody), dehydration, abdominal cramps, and in severe cases a serious condition involving kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).  The very young, the elderly, and persons with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.  People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

This recall was initiated after epidemiological investigations and a case control study conducted by the Michigan and Ohio Departments of Agriculture and Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determined that there is an association between the ground beef products and 32 illnesses reported in Michigan (15) and Ohio (17).  The illnesses were linked through the epidemiological investigation by their pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern, or DNA fingerprint, found in PulseNet, a database maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult a medical professional.

These products were distributed to Kroger stores in Michigan and Columbus and Toledo, Ohio. FSIS has confirmed that none of the affected products remain available for purchase at stores; however consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers and discard or return the ground beef products for a refund.

Amount recalled:   Undetermined amount

Distribution:
To Kroger Stores in Michigan and Columbus and Toledo, Ohio.

Press Release:   Yes- not yet posted on USDA website.

USDA-FSIS  for more information