Recent research has demonstrated that lactic acid-based antimicrobials, such as Birko's Beefxide, are effective in reducing non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in beef trimmings. Beefxide has been approved by the USDA for use as an antimicrobial processing aid on beef intended for human consumption. Beefxide is formulated from FDA-approved ingredients and all components of the formula are GRAS. Beefxide is also suitable for use on products to be labeled as natural or organic.