Meatloaf is off the menu at Greater Cincinnati's Boston Markets until the restaurants can find a supplier to replace Hudson Foods.
Arkansas-based Hudson Thursday recalled 25 million pounds of possibly tainted beef under an agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Columbus, Neb., plant was closed until more stringent standards in handling, record keeping and testing can be implemented.
The recall began after health officials traced the bacteria-related illnesses of 15 people in Colorado to hamburgers they ate in early June.
More than 1,600 Burger Kings nationwide also were affected, although none in the Tristate. They are promoting chicken, ham and fish.
Forty percent of Boston Market's restaurants, in 22 states including Ohio, yanked meatloaf off the menu, spokesman Jeff Beckman said.
Both fast-food chains are scrambling to secure rush deliveries from other suppliers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the Hudson patties may have been distributed to every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
Other major customers include Safeway and Wal-Mart, Hudson spokesman Robert Udowitz said.
In Greater Cincinnati, Hudson operates a plant in Springdale. Business there will not be affected by the recall because the plant produces only prepackaged foods that are cooked to USDA standards before distribution, Mr. Udowitz said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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