Specific Products Targeted in the Recall (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Kuna, Idaho – CS Beef Packers LLC recalled approximately 22,912 pounds of raw ground beef products last week after federal testing detected possible E. coli O145 contamination.[1]
Specific Products Targeted in the Recall
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced the Class I recall on February 11, 2026. All affected items were produced on January 14, 2026, and bear the establishment number “EST. 630” within the USDA mark of inspection.[1]
Foodservice operators and distributors received the products in cardboard cases. Consumers and businesses should check for these exact details:
- Cardboard cases containing eight 10-lb. chubs of “BEEF, COARSE GROUND, 73 L” with case code 18601.
- Cardboard cases containing four 10-lb. chubs of “FIRE RIVER FARMS CLASSIC BEEF FINE GROUND 73L” with case code 19583.
- Cardboard cases containing four 10-lb. chubs of “FIRE RIVER FARMS CLASSIC BEEF FINE GROUND 81L” with case code 19563.
All packages carry a “Use/Freeze By: 02/04/26” date and time stamps between 07:03 and 08:32, printed on stickers and directly on the clear chub packaging.[1]
Distribution Reach and Detection Method
The ground beef shipped to distributors in California, Idaho, and Oregon for further distribution to foodservice locations. No retail sales to individual consumers occurred, but the products may have reached institutional kitchens or restaurants.[1]
Federal inspectors uncovered the issue during routine testing at a downstream customer. Sampling confirmed the presence of E. coli O145, prompting the immediate recall action. No confirmed illnesses linked to these products have surfaced so far.[1]
Health Dangers Posed by E. coli O145
E. coli O145 belongs to the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli family, similar to the more familiar O157:H7 strain. Symptoms typically appear two to eight days after exposure, averaging three to four days.
Infected individuals often experience severe diarrhea, frequently bloody, along with vomiting. While most recover within a week through hydration and supportive care, complications can arise. Antibiotics generally prove ineffective and may worsen outcomes.
Rarely, the infection leads to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney failure condition. This risk heightens for children under five, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Warning signs include easy bruising, pallor, and reduced urine output, requiring urgent medical attention.[1]
Steps for Safety and Next Actions
Foodservice establishments must discard these products or return them to suppliers. The FSIS emphasizes cooking all ground beef to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, verified by a food thermometer, to eliminate harmful bacteria.[1]
| Product Description | Case Code | Key Identifiers |
|---|---|---|
| 8 x 10-lb. chubs “BEEF, COARSE GROUND, 73 L” | 18601 | Use/Freeze By 02/04/26, times 07:03-08:32, EST. 630 |
| 4 x 10-lb. chubs “FIRE RIVER FARMS CLASSIC BEEF FINE GROUND 73L” | 19583 | Use/Freeze By 02/04/26, times 07:03-08:32, EST. 630 |
| 4 x 10-lb. chubs “FIRE RIVER FARMS CLASSIC BEEF FINE GROUND 81L” | 19563 | Use/Freeze By 02/04/26, times 07:03-08:32, EST. 630 |
For questions, contact Roger Cooper at CS Beef Packers (208-810-7510 ext 7531) or the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854. Full details appear in the official FSIS notice.[1]
- No illnesses reported, but act swiftly on any suspect products.
- Cook ground beef to 160°F internal temperature every time.
- Monitor for symptoms like bloody diarrhea; seek care if concerned.
This recall underscores ongoing vigilance in meat processing, even without reported harm. Food safety measures protect public health proactively. Have you encountered a similar recall? Share your thoughts in the comments.
