Colorado company recalls 66,000 pounds of bison meat after link to E. coli sicknesses

Colorado bison meat recalled after link to E. coli

HENDERSON, Colo. — A Colorado company has recalled 66,000 pounds of bison meat sold nationwide after federal agriculture officials linked it to E. coli sicknesses.

Rocky Mountain Natural Meats in Henderson recalled the ground and tenderized bison after it was linked to sickening five people in Colorado and one in New York, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said Friday.

E. coli is a potentially deadly germ that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

The USDA said the recalled bison meat was sold to stores nationwide between May 21 and May 27. The sicknesses were reported between June 1 and June 4.

All the products included in the recall have the establishment number “EST. 20247″ inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The recalled meats are:

—Great Ranger Brand All Natural Ground Bison, 16-ounce packages with sell- or freeze-by dates of June 21, June 22 or June 24.

—Nature’s Rancher Ground Buffalo, 16-ounce packages with a sell- or freeze-by date of June 22.

—The Buffalo Guys All Natural Ground Buffalo 90 percent lean, 16-ounce packages with a lot number of 0147.

—Great Range Brand All Natural Bison Steak Medallions, 12-ounce packages with sell- or freeze-by dates of June 23 and June 24.

—Great Range Brand All Natural Bison Sirloin Steaks, 12-ounce packages with sell- or freeze-by dates of June 23 and June 24.

—Rocky Mountain Natural Meats Inc. Bison 10 oz. Sirloin Steak, 15-pound boxes. These meats went to restaurants and have a Julian code of 0141.