McDonald's Faces E. Coli Crisis: Quarter Pounder Recall Sparks Public Health Panic

McDonald's has recalled its Quarter Pounder burgers in response to an E. coli outbreak that killed one person and sickened nearly 50 across the Midwest and West U.S. The CDC and USDA are investigating the outbreak's cause, focusing on onions and beef patties. McDonald's faces potential liabilities.

McDonald's took swift action on Wednesday to address a serious E. coli outbreak linked to its Quarter Pounder burgers, which resulted in one death and sickened nearly 50 people. The company pulled the product from restaurants in numerous states as authorities investigate.

The CDC and McDonald's are examining the possible culprits, including onions and beef patties, to determine the outbreak's source. Ten individuals have been hospitalized due to severe complications from the bacterium strain similar to a 1993 incident.

The outbreak has triggered a stock decline and potential liabilities for the fast-food giant. Analysts warn the situation could tarnish McDonald's image and affect sales, similar to past E. coli cases at other chains like Chipotle and Jack in the Box.

(With inputs from agencies.)