The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a Class I recall for nearly 23,000 pounds of ground beef across California, Idaho, and Oregon due to potential contamination with E. coli, a pathogen that can cause severe foodborne illness.

While no illnesses have been reported, the recall represents the highest risk level, indicating a reasonable probability of serious health consequences if consumed.

The Idaho-based company CS Beef Packers, LLC voluntarily removed the affected products from shelves after routine testing detected E. coli bacteria.

The recall encompasses approximately 22,912 pounds of raw ground beef, including three distinct products, all bearing establishment number EST. 630 and use/freeze-by date of February 4, 2026. Specific items include:

• Beef, Coarse Ground, 73 L, packaged in cardboard cases containing eight 10-lb chubs (case code: 18601)

• Fire Rive Farms Classic Beef Fine Ground 73L, packaged in cardboard cases containing four 10-lb chubs (case code: 19583)

• Fire River Farms Classic Beef Fine Ground 81L, packaged in cardboard cases containing four 10-lb chubs (case code: 19563)

The products were distributed to foodservice locations such as restaurants in the three affected states.

FSIS has warned that some of the recalled ground beef may still be present at these establishments, urging providers to dispose of or return the products immediately to prevent further consumption.

Consumers are reminded that while the recalled beef is unlikely to be in homes, safe food handling remains critical. Ground beef should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to eliminate pathogens.

Individuals concerned about exposure should monitor for E. coli symptoms, which include diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. Most healthy adults recover within a week, but severe cases require immediate medical attention.