Mountain West Food Group has issued a recall for approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products due to potential contamination with E. coli O26, as announced by the Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service.
The affected product is labeled as "FORWARD FARMS GRASS-FED GROUND BEEF," packaged in 16-ounce, vacuum-sealed units with a "use or freeze by" date of January 13, 2026, and bears the establishment number "EST 2083." These products were manufactured on December 16, 2025, and distributed to several states including California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington for retail sale. While routine testing confirmed the presence of E. coli O26, fortunately, no illnesses have been reported to date. However, consumers who have purchased this beef should remain vigilant for symptoms, which can manifest up to 28 days post-exposure.
Symptoms of E. coli O26 infection commonly include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and a mild fever. Certain groups, such as the elderly, young children, individuals with compromised immune systems, and pregnant people, face a higher risk of severe, life-threatening complications from such an infection. If any of these symptoms appear after consuming the product, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Consumers are advised to either dispose of the recalled beef immediately or return it to the point of purchase. Further details and a complete list of retail distributors will be made available on the FSIS website.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance in food safety and adherence to public health advisories. Every measure taken to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses not only protects individual well-being but also strengthens the collective health of our communities. By staying informed and acting responsibly, we contribute to a safer food supply chain for everyone.