McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Return to Select Locations After E. coli Outbreak
At McDonald’s, the return of Quarter Pounders to roughly 900 restaurants this week marks a significant milestone following the fast-food giant’s decision to pull the menu item due to a deadly E. coli outbreak. This move affects roughly a fifth of McDonald’s U.S. footprint, with affected locations serving Quarter Pounders without slivered onions for the foreseeable future as health authorities continue investigating the source of the outbreak.
Unique to our knowledge at Extreme Investor Network, McDonald’s has taken extra precautions by discontinuing the use of Taylor Farms as a supplier for the slivered onions, believed to be the culprits behind the recent E. coli cases. The company has now asked its beef suppliers to ramp up production of fresh beef patties for the Quarter Pounders. Customers can anticipate the gradual return of the menu item to all restaurants in the upcoming week, subject to delivery and resupply operations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported 75 cases across 13 states related to the E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s. Of the patients affected, 22 have been hospitalized, and sadly, two individuals have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe condition that can lead to kidney failure. Tragically, an older adult in Colorado has also passed away due to complications from the outbreak.
In response, McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger released a sincere apology to concerned customers who may be feeling uneasy about the situation. He expressed regret on behalf of the McDonald’s system and assured customers that the company is making every effort to rectify the situation.
The upcoming third-quarter earnings report from McDonald’s is highly anticipated, with shares of the company having dipped by 7% since the CDC linked the E. coli outbreak to its restaurants. This development emphasizes the critical need for transparency, accountability, and swift action in the face of food-related health concerns.
Stay tuned for further updates as McDonald’s continues to navigate the aftermath of the E. coli outbreak and works towards ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers. For more exclusive insights and analysis on business news, subscribe to Extreme Investor Network and stay ahead of the curve.