Smith's expands beef recall

Smith’s Food and Drug Stores has expanded a recall on beef products.

The recall now includes packages weighing two pounds or more of store-brand ground beef, 85 percent lean, 15 percent fat, with sell-by dates of April 27, 2009 to June 1, 2009.

They were sold in foam tray packages wrapped in clear cellophane in fresh meat cases at Smith's stores.

The company said the beef was supplied by JBS Swift Beef Co. and may be contaminated with E. coli.

The product is no longer in stores, but Smith’s is asking customers to check their freezers at home for the recalled ground beef, which has the following UPC codes on the label:

• 0021165400000
• 0021165410000
• 0021165420000
• 0021165430000

Customers can return the beef to the store for a full refund or replacement.

The original recall also includes several steak products as well as a few other ground beef products. A list of those products is available on the Smith's Web site.

Twenty-six Smith’s Food and Drug Stores in New Mexico carried the beef, along with stores in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the beef products.

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

Customers can get more information on the Smith's recall Web site or by calling 800-632-6900.