In October 2024, a deadly E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions at McDonald’s sparked nationwide concern. After months of investigation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have officially declared the outbreak over. However, the investigation has raised important questions about food safety and how restaurant chains like McDonald’s can improve their supply chain practices to prevent future outbreaks.
The Source of the Outbreak
The outbreak, which affected numerous individuals across the United States, was traced to slivered onions used in McDonald’s menu items. The contamination led to widespread illness, and in some cases, fatalities. As a result, the investigation focused on how the onions were sourced, handled, and distributed, ultimately identifying weaknesses in the supply chain.
Experts Call for Improved Food Safety Practices
Bill Marler, a food safety attorney, emphasized the importance of improving the safety protocols within the food supply chain. He urged that businesses, especially large chains like McDonald’s, pay closer attention to their suppliers’ practices. “They all need to pay attention to what they can do to make their supply chain safer,” Marler said. He suggested that McDonald’s should adopt more aggressive safety measures, such as stricter testing, inspections, and audits of suppliers.
Marler highlighted that the risk of contamination is particularly high for fresh produce, such as onions and leafy greens, which are grown in the ground. He recommended testing irrigation water for pathogens and ensuring that crops are grown away from potential contamination sources, such as cattle feedlots.
Transparency and Consumer Protection
Marler also urged consumers to take an active role in ensuring their safety when dining out. One way to assess a restaurant’s commitment to food safety is by checking inspection reports, which are often available online. While one negative inspection report may not be a reason to avoid a restaurant, Marler warned that repeated violations could signal ongoing safety issues.
Moving Forward
As the investigation concludes, the focus now shifts to preventing similar outbreaks in the future. Marler’s advice for McDonald’s and other large chains is clear: focusing on the safety of the supply chain, particularly for high-risk produce, is essential for protecting public health.
