McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers to return to restaurants affected by E. coli outbreak

Core Points - The E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's has resulted in 75 cases across 13 states, with 22 hospitalizations and one reported death [3][4] - McDonald's has identified slivered onions as the likely source of the outbreak and has ceased using Taylor Farms as a supplier for this ingredient [2][3] - The company is working to reintroduce the Quarter Pounder burgers in a phased manner, with approximately 900 restaurants expected to have the item back on the menu soon [2][3] Company Response - McDonald's USA President Joe Erlinger issued an apology to customers expressing concern over the outbreak [4] - The company is actively communicating with its beef suppliers to ensure a new supply of fresh beef patties for the Quarter Pounders [3] - The company has experienced a 7% decline in share price since the outbreak was linked to its restaurants [4] Operational Impact - Affected restaurants, which represent about 20% of McDonald's U.S. locations, will serve Quarter Pounders without slivered onions until further notice [2] - The outbreak occurred during a period when McDonald's typically sells around one million Quarter Pounders in the affected region over two weeks [3]