outbreaks
E. coli Outbreak Tracker — Real-Time Alerts
E. coli O157:H7 and other Shiga toxin-producing strains (STEC) cause some of the most severe foodborne illness outcomes, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) — a type of kidney failure that primarily affects children. Outbreaks are frequently linked to ground beef, leafy greens, and raw milk.
Why E. coli outbreaks matter
STEC infections can range from mild diarrhea to life-threatening kidney failure. Children under 5 and the elderly are at highest risk for developing HUS. E. coli outbreaks often affect multiple states simultaneously because contaminated products are distributed widely through grocery chains and food service suppliers.
Common E. coli sources
Ground beef is the most well-known source, but recent outbreaks have been linked to romaine lettuce, flour, raw milk and cheese, cookie dough, and even fast food chains. The bacteria live in the intestines of cattle and can contaminate food during processing or through irrigation water on farms.
Same-day E. coli outbreak alerts
Panko Alerts tracks CDC E. coli outbreak investigations, FDA and FSIS recalls involving STEC contamination, and state health department case reports. Each alert includes the implicated product, affected states, case counts, and AI-generated plain-language summaries.
Track E. coli outbreaks — free for 7 days
Real-time food safety alerts from 25+ government sources. AI-scored by urgency. Less than one bad meal a month — $4.99/mo.
Start free trial → alerts.getpanko.app