**McDonald's Addresses E. Coli Outbreak Tied to Quarter Pounder Burgers**

**McDonald's President Reassures Customers' Safety in Wake of E. Coli Outbreak**

In light of an E. coli outbreak traced back to McDonald's quarter pounder hamburgers, which has resulted in 49 illnesses and one death, McDonald's USA President Joe Erlinger conveyed confidence in the safety of dining at McDonald's. In an appearance on the TODAY show on October 23, Erlinger emphasized that the classic menu items, excluding the quarter pounder, remain safe for consumption.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an investigation into the outbreak on October 22, which has affected 10 states. Although the specific contaminated ingredient remains unidentified, McDonald's has proactively removed quarter pounder beef patties and slivered onions from its menus in several states.

"We took swift and decisive action by removing the Quarter Pounder from our menu," Erlinger stated. "Currently, two ingredients are under investigation by the CDC."

Erlinger underscored the company's commitment to food safety, noting that it remains a top priority for McDonald's, its franchisees, and suppliers. "This is a fundamental aspect of our business, and we've acted promptly to protect public health," he said.

The CDC has linked the outbreak to illnesses occurring between September 27 and October 11, noting the potential for a higher number of affected individuals than currently reported. The outbreak has led to 10 hospitalizations and one fatality. The states impacted include Oregon, Utah, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

Erlinger assured that McDonald's will continue collaborating with the CDC to trace the outbreak and ensure customer safety. He indicated that any potentially contaminated product has likely already moved through the supply chain by now.

Quoting Ray Kroc, the founder who acquired McDonald's in 1961, Erlinger reiterated, "If you take care of our customers, the business will take care of itself." He expressed confidence that McDonald's would regain customer trust and navigate through the current challenge.