Ground beef recall now reached nearly 2 million pounds of beef products sold for restaurant use in four states that may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria. According to the LA Times, the ground beef recall has been linked to up to 11 illnesses in over four states.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 11 people in four states have been infected with E. coli-related illnesses. These infections has been linked to over 1.8 million pounds of the ground beef recall by a Detroit packing company on Monday.

The LA Times reports that the meat has been believed to be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. This type of E.Coli is a specific strain of the bacteria that can reportedly cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and in more severe cases, a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome. 

Wolverine Packing Co. voluntarily initiated the groun beef recall of the contaminated meat. The affected beef products reportedly hold the establishment number 2574B. According to the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service, they were produced between March 31 and April 18, the Associated Press reports.

The beef from the ground beef recall was reportedly shipped to distributors nationwide for restaurant and retail use. On May 12, the FSIS was informed of the E. coli illnesses during a joint investigation with the CDC and they found a link to ground beef from the Wolverine Packing Co., says an FSIS statement.  

Meanwhile, the FSIS is advising all consumers to make certain if their meat products are cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, it is advised to use a food thermometer to ensure safe beef consumption. 

Ground beef recall has been linked to E.coli illnesses in four states. The four states where the illnesses have been reported include Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio. To view a full list of recalled products, see the FSIS website here