50,000 Pounds of Beef Recalled Due to Possible E. Coli Contamination

National Beef Packing Co. is recalling 50,000 pounds of ground beef due to possible E. coli contamination, though some packages may already be on store shelves, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

As of yet, no illnesses have been linked to the beef. Still, health officials are taking all precautionary measures possible after routine monitoring uncovered a strain of the bacterium in a sample of the company's beef late Wednesday.

Recalled products include:

• 10 lb. chub of "National Beef" 93/ 7 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 0707

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureSource" 80/20 Fine Ground Chuck, Product Code 7031

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureSource" 85/15 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 7054

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureSource" 90/10 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 7344

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureSource" 93/ 7 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 7004

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureWell 80/20 Fine Ground Chuck, Product Code 7484

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureWell" 85/15 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 7454

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureWell" 90/10 Fine Ground Sirloin, Product Code 7577

• 10 lb. chub of "NatureWell" 93/7 Fine Ground Beef, Product Code 7404

All bear the establishment number "EST.208A" inside the USDA mark of inspection, according to the agency, and have been shipped to retailers, wholesalers and food service distributors nationwide.

E. coli is potentially deadly and can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration and, in the most severe cases, kidney failure. Those most at risk include very young and elderly individuals as well as those with a weak immune system.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service responsible for uncovering the tainted beef advises all consumers to safely prepare any raw meat products and only consume beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.