WASHINGTON – Nebraska Beef Ltd. of Omaha is recalling about 1.2 million pounds of beef products nationwide on E. coli O157:H7 concerns, including primal cuts, subprimal cuts and boxed beef.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said Friday that the products were produced on June 17, June 24 and July 8, 2008. The shipping containers and product labels bear the establishment number “EST. 19336” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as the brand “Coleman Natural.” However, these products were sent to establishments and retail stores nationwide for further processing and will likely not bear the establishment number “EST. 19336” on products available for direct consumer purchase.

The problem was found through joint investigation between the FSIS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and several state departments of health and agriculture. As of Friday, there are 31 confirmed cases of E. coli illness in 12 states and Canada.

Grocery chains Fred Meyer and Whole Foods have also recalled beef products related to this overall recall.

The FSIS said it is continuing its investigation into any products that may be contaminated with E. coli or that are associated with illnesses and will take appropriate action when necessary.

Source: Food Safety and Inspection Service