Wisconsin Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Butterball Turkey: Report

MILWAUKEE, WI —The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is investigating an outbreak of Salmonella infections, and has identified four Wisconsin residents who have been infected with the same strain.

Health officials in Wisconsin say the four patients in Wisconsin are linked to Butterball raw ground turkey products. Wisconsin health officials say that testing of leftover raw ground turkey received by the Wisconsin patients was also positive for the outbreak strain of Salmonella.

As a result of this outbreak, Butterball is voluntarily recalling 78,164 pounds of raw ground turkey products.

A complete list of products included in the recall can be found in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Recall notice.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. P-7345” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to institutional and retail locations nationwide.

Health officials in Wisconsin are advising residents who may have Butterball ground turkey products in their freezer should check to see if their product is included in the recall, and if so, are advised to discard any remaining product.

Food pantries, food banks, and patrons of those establishments are especially encouraged to check any ground turkey they have received because this product was also distributed through these routes.

Raw turkey and other poultry products can be contaminated with Salmonella or other pathogens. When handling raw poultry products, it is important to take the following steps to protect you and your family:

• Wash hands and surfaces often when handling raw poultry.
• Separate raw meats and poultry from other foods in the refrigerator.
• Refrigerate or freeze raw poultry promptly after purchasing.
• Cook all raw poultry to an internal temperature of 165ºF.
• Always follow manufacturer’s instructions provided on product packaging.
• Place cooked poultry only on a clean dish before serving.
• Report suspected food poisoning to your local health department.

Salmonellosis is caused by Salmonella bacteria that are spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or by direct or indirect contact with fecal matter from infected people or animals. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pains, fever, and vomiting that lasts for several days.

Bloodstream infections can occur, but are rare, and can be quite serious in young children and older adults. Most people recover from salmonellosis on their own, but may require extra fluids to prevent dehydration.

If you have consumed any of the recalled Butterball raw ground turkey products and are experiencing symptoms of salmonellosis, contact your health care provider, Wisconsin health officials said Thursday.