The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced a recall involving raw ground beef products produced by Mountain West Food Group, LLC. The recall affects products that may be contaminated with E. coli O26 and were distributed for retail sale in multiple states.
Recall Details and Product Information
Mountain West Food Group, LLC, a Heyburn, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef. The product was produced on December 16, 2025.
The recalled item includes 16-ounce vacuum-sealed packages labeled “FORWARD FARMS GRASS-FED GROUND BEEF.” The packaging displays “USE OR FREEZE BY 01/13/26” and includes establishment number “EST 2083” printed on the side.
The recalled product was shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington for further distribution to retail locations.
Reason for the Recall
FSIS discovered the issue during routine testing. Sampling results showed the presence of E. coli O26 in the product. As a result, FSIS initiated the recall to protect public health.
At this time, there have been no confirmed reports of illness associated with consumption of the recalled ground beef. However, individuals who are concerned about illness are advised to contact a healthcare provider.
Health Information Related to E. coli O26
E. coli O26 is a type of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, similar to E. coli O157:H7. People can become ill from exposure to STEC O26 between two and eight days after exposure, with an average onset of three to four days.
Most people infected with STEC O26 experience diarrhea, which is often bloody, as well as vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and may be more severe. Healthcare providers typically diagnose infection through stool sample testing.
Treatment usually includes rehydration and supportive care, while antibiotics are generally not recommended. Most individuals recover within a week. In rare cases, some people develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, a form of kidney failure. HUS is uncommon with STEC O26 infections but occurs more frequently in children under five years old, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Consumer Guidance and Food Safety Recommendations
FSIS expressed concern that some of the recalled product may still be stored in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. Consumers who purchased the recalled ground beef should not consume it. Instead, they should discard the product or return it to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to confirm that recalling firms notify their customers and remove affected products from commerce. When available, retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website.
Additionally, FSIS advises consumers to safely prepare raw meat products and to cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The only reliable way to confirm proper cooking is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature.
Contact Information and Additional Resources
Media and consumers with questions about the recall can contact Jeremy Anderson, CEO of Mountain West Food Group, LLC, at 208-679-3765 or via email at info@mountainwestfoodgroup.com.
Consumers with food safety questions can also contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854. Questions may be submitted by email to MPHotline@usda.gov. Additionally, consumers can report problems with meat, poultry, or egg products through the Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System, which is available 24 hours a day.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.