A ground beef recall for possible E. coli contamination was issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service on Aug. 12. More than 60,000 pounds of ground beef products distributed by the National Beef Packing Co. are being recalled from Winn-Dixie Stores, Publix Super Markets, and Kroger retail food chains in Georgia and 6 other Southeastern states.

Although the recall is focused on specific states, the U.S.D.A. reported the meat may have been distributed nationwide.

There are currently no reports of illnesses but the F.S.I.S. has labeled this as a Class 1 recall with a high health risk, described as a health hazard situation with reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.

All consumers who have purchased any of the recalled ground beef products should return them for a full refund.

For a full list of products that have been recalled and more information, visit www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_064_2011_Release/index.asp.