As if you needed another reason to avoid Beef

Red meat has been conclusively linked to increased risk of heart attack, stroke and peripheral artery disease. Researchers have shown that independent of other risk factors, the risk of cardiovascular disease is increased. As if that isnt enough to compel you to step away from the next hamburger, I came across another story of contaminated beef that has been widely distributed throughout the states. Lets face it:spinach, peanut butter, beef. Everyone is cutting corners to make a profit and unless your growing it in your backyard. Good luck!!

28 Illnesses Are Linked to Recalled Ground Beef
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: August 8, 2009
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Health officials in three Western states said Friday that at least 28 people had reported illnesses tied to recalled ground beef that might be tainted with salmonella.

On Thursday, Beef Packers Inc. of Fresno recalled nearly 826,000 pounds of ground beef produced from June 5 to 23.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service of the Agriculture Department said the beef was sent to retail distribution centers in Arizona, California, Colorado and Utah, with some sold at Safeway Inc. and Sam’s Club.

On Friday, the department confirmed that California, Colorado and Wyoming had reported illness linked to the recalled beef.

Colorado health officials said 21 people there had been sickened, and all were recovering. California officials said five people had reported feeling sick. Wyoming health officials reported that two people had fallen ill.

Officials are investigating other reported illnesses in Arizona, Idaho, Illinois, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, South Dakota and Texas that may be linked to the same strain of salmonella, the Agriculture Department said.

Federal officials do not yet know if those cases are associated with the beef recalled Thursday.

Because the beef was repackaged under different retail names, the department recommends consumers check with the store where they bought the beef to determine whether what they bought has been recalled.

Salmonella can result in abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever. Most people recover without treatment, but some require hospitalization. In rare cases the organism can get into the blood and produce more severe illnesses.