Massachusetts company recalls beef

They became ill after visiting a camp in Plymouth in mid-October. E.coli bacteria can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

Two sixth graders were among those who were sickened. They were hospitalized after eating contaminated meat earlier this month while on a field trip. The strain of E.coli that made them ill is the same as the strain found in the beef at the camp.

Crocetti's Oakdale Packing, Co., also known as South Shore Meats, Inc., voluntarily recalled certain ground beef and other beef products, and Massachusetts authorities are investigating the outbreak to identify all of the potentially tainted beef products.

Approximately 1,000 pounds of ground beef patties have already been recalled, all with the establishment number EST. 6336 and a date code of 281. The contaminated products were produced on October 8, and distributed to retailers and wholesale distributers in Massachusetts.

The recall is classified as Class I, meaning there is "a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death."

As of this writing, no deaths or life-threatening illnesses have resulted from the infections, according to a state health spokeswoman. Those with weakened immune systems, as well as the very young and old, are more sensitive to food-borne illnesses. Anyone who is concerned about illness as a result of the E.coli bacteria should contact a physician.

As any additional contaminated products are identified, the public will be made aware of the specific products and their lot numbers. For updated information about food recalls and alerts, visit the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Safety Inspection Service website. The site includes the product labels to ensure consumers know exactly which products may be contaminated.

To help prevent exposure to E.coli, all meat must be cooked until the internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees.

Written by Nicole Palmby