The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced a recall of approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products due to possible contamination with Escherichia coli O26, a Shiga toxin–producing strain of E. coli. The recall involves products produced by Mountain West Food Group, LLC, a federally inspected establishment based in Heyburn, Idaho.
Reason for the Recall
The contamination was identified during routine FSIS testing, which detected the presence of E. coli O26 in the sampled product. FSIS stated that, although no confirmed illnesses have been reported to date, the recall was issued as a precautionary measure to protect public health.
Recalled Product Details
The following product is subject to recall:
- Product name: Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef
- Package size: 16-oz. (1 lb.) vacuum-sealed packages
- Use or Freeze By date: 01/13/26
- Establishment number: EST. 2083 (printed on the side of the packaging)
- Production date: December 16, 2025
The recalled product was shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington, where it was intended for further distribution to retail outlets.
Health Risk Information
E. coli O26 is a strain of Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC), similar to the better-known E. coli O157:H7. Illness can develop 2 to 8 days after exposure, with an average incubation period of 3 to 4 days.
Common symptoms of STEC O26 infection include:
- Diarrhea (often bloody)
- Vomiting
- Severe stomach cramps
- Fever in some cases
Most people recover within five to seven days with supportive care, such as proper hydration. Antibiotic treatment is generally not recommended, as it may increase the risk of complications.
In rare cases, infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious and potentially life-threatening form of kidney failure. HUS is more likely to occur in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of HUS include:
- Decreased urine output
- Pale skin
- Easy bruising or unexplained bleeding
- Extreme fatigue
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Consumer Advice
FSIS expressed concern that some of the recalled ground beef may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. Consumers who have purchased the affected product are urged to:
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Not consume the recalled ground beef
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Discard the product safely or return it to the place of purchase
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Clean and sanitize any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with the raw meat
Individuals who believe they may have become ill after consuming the product should contact a healthcare provider and inform them of possible exposure to E. coli.
FSIS will continue to monitor the recall and ensure that affected products are removed from the marketplace. Consumers are encouraged to stay alert for additional updates and food safety notices.