Health Alert Issued for Organic Ground Beef Contaminated With E. Coli

One pound packages of organic ground beef that were distributed to Whole Foods Market retail locations nationwide are the subject of this USDA Health Alert. E. coli was found in a tested package of the ground beef.

There was no recall issued because the products in question are no longer for sale. However, it is likely that consumers still have potentially contaminated beef in their refrigerators or their freezers.

IMPORTANT: No cases of E. coli illness have been reported so far with this USDA Health Alert, but it's very important to check your fridge and freezer to make sure you do not consume this organic ground beef.

As of this writing, the only Montana location of Whole Foods Market is in Bozeman.

The raw ground beef item was produced on May 22, 2025, and May 23, 2025. "Use or Freeze By 06-19-25" and "Use or Freeze By 06-20-25" is on the packaging. This is what the back of the package looks like:

"This item was shipped to distributor locations in Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois and Maryland and was further distributed to Whole Foods Market retail locations nationwide." 

If you know of friends and family who may have purchased this product, let them know about this active USDA Health Alert. Tell them to check their fridge and freezer too. The organic ground beef was sold nationwide.

• E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2–8 days (3–4 days, on average) after exposure the organism.
• While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
• This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults.
• It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output.
• Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854).

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