Athol, MA-based Adams Farm Slaughterhouse, LLC., late Monday recalled approximately 2,574 pounds of beef that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

It is the first E. coli-related recall of 2010.

This recall was initiated after the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) confirmed a positive ground beef sample for E. coli O157:H7, which it collected during an epidemiological investigation.

FSIS then concluded there was an association between the ground beef products and an illness in the state of Massachusetts. FSIS is continuing to work with the MDPH on the investigation.

The following products are subject to recall:

  • 1,025-pounds of “Beef Cuts and Ground” packed for Mazzarese.
  • 697-pounds of “Beef Cuts and Ground” packed for Side Hill Farm.
  • 852-pounds of “Beef Cuts and Ground” packed for Sweet Water Farm.

Each package bears a label with the establishment number “EST. 5497” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as the packaging date of “11/11/2009.” The beef products were distributed to private owners on three separate Massachusetts farms.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors, and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.

Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.