A nationwide recall has been initiated for more than 16,000 pounds of ground beef sold at Walmart stores across the United States due to potential contamination with E. coli, announced the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). 

The E. coli contamination was traced back to Cargill Meat Solutions in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. USDA issued a "high class" warning after identifying the affected products, which were distributed to Walmart locations nationwide.

These ground beef products that are being recalled include "93% lean, 7% fat all-natural lean ground beef," prime rib beef steak burgers, and "85% lean, 15% fat all-natural premium ground beef." 

Also included are packages of "80% lean, 20% fat all-natural ground beef chuck," including four packs of ground beef chuck patties and ground beef sirloin patties. 

Approximately 16,243 pounds of ground beef are subject to the recall.

READ NEXT: Tyson Foods Found Dumping Million Pounds of Toxic Pollutants into US Waterways

The Contaminated Ground Beef

According to NYPost, the strain of E. coli in question, O157:H7, poses significant health risks, including severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and older adults.

While healthy adults may recover within a week, exposure to E. coli can lead to life-threatening kidney failure in at-risk individuals.

In response to the recall, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has advised consumers to dispose of or return any affected products to the place of purchase for a refund. 

Despite the recall, the FSIS reported no confirmed adverse reactions associated with consuming these products as of the announcement.

This news also coincides with a VCPost report that Tyson Foods was found dumping toxic pollutants into US waterways.

READ MORE: Michigan Family Sues Wendy's for $20 Million After 11-Year-Old Girl Suffered Deadly E.Coli Infection