USDA recalls beef from slaughterhouse in Vermont E. coli outbreak

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a recall of about a ton of ground beef reportedly linked to a recent E. coli outbreak in Vermont.

At least 10 people have fallen ill with the food-borne bacteria in recent weeks. The USDA said ground beef from the Vermont Livestock, Slaughter and Processing Co. in Ferrisburgh, Vt., is likely responsible for the rash of sickness.

The questionable beef was distributed to restaurants and food service institutions in Vermont and Plattsburgh, N.Y. In total, the amount being recalled is 2,758 pounds and was shipped in 5-pound packages with the label VT BURGER CO GROUND BEEF.

Also on the label is the number EST 9558 inside the USDA approval mark. The inspection and lot codes on the beef are 090508A, 090808A, 091208A, 091908A or 092208A.

The beef was shipped in boxes of two, 5-pound lots. It was produced on Sept. 5, 8, 12, 19 and/or 22.

The Vermont Department of Health and the USDA participated in a joint investigation to determine the source of the contamination.