CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TODAY CONFIRMED RECALLED BEEF PRODUCTS FROM NEBRASKA BEEF LTD. HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED IN CALIFORNIA

DATE:  August 12, 2008

NUMBER:  08-41

CONTACT:  Suanne Buggy or Lea Brooks - (916) 440-7259

SACRAMENTO – Dr. Mark Horton, director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), today confirmed beef recalled by Nebraska Beef LTD based in Omaha, Neb., has been distributed to retail-level outlets in California.   The beef has been recalled because it may be contaminated with E. coli, which can cause serious illness.

The Department is investigating to determine the complete distribution in the state.  A list of retail-level outlets is available.  The list will be updated as the investigation continues.

Nebraska Beef LTD voluntarily recalled 1.2 million pounds of primal cuts, subprimal cuts and boxed beef products produced on June 17, June 24 and July 8, 2008. The shipping containers and product labels bear the establishment number “EST. 19336” inside the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) mark of inspection as well as the brand “Coleman Natural.” However, these products were sent to establishments and retail stores nationwide for further processing and will likely not bear the establishment number “EST. 19336” on products available for direct consumer purchase.

Consumers are encouraged to discuss questions or concerns about the recalled product with the retail store.  Consumers who have purchased recalled product should either throw the product away or return it to point of purchase.  Consumers also may contact Nebraska Beef LTD at 402-733-0456.

E. coli O157:H7 infection often causes abdominal cramps and diarrhea, sometimes bloody.  Those most at risk for serious complications of this foodborne illness include young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.  Consumers with any of these symptoms should contact their health care provider.