Guide · Oct 20, 2026
Ground beef recalls (USDA FSIS): current list and how to check your package
Recent USDA FSIS recalls and public health alerts involving ground beef, and how to match your package using the establishment number.
By the Consumer Sun editorial team · Last updated
Short answer: We found 10 USDA FSIS recalls and public health alerts involving ground beef from Jan 1, 2025 to Oct 20, 2026. Check the establishment number ("EST.") inside the USDA mark of inspection on your package against the notice.
Last checked October 20, 2026 against USDA FSIS's recall list. All food recall guides are on our food recalls hub.
Recent ground beef recalls and alerts
A public health alert is not a recall. FSIS issues one when a recall isn't possible, usually because the product is no longer available to buy, and it still tells you not to eat what's in your freezer.
How to match your package
- Establishment number: printed as "EST." followed by a number inside the round USDA mark of inspection. The CS Beef Packers recall, for example, lists "EST. 630." The notice lists the numbers and product names to match.
- Dates: notices give "use or freeze by," "sell by" or pack dates. Match the date to the one on your package.
- No number on the package? Ground beef ground and wrapped in a store can be sold without an establishment number. The May 2025 Bismillah Halal Meats alert covered ground beef made under a retail exemption, so the products carried no establishment number or USDA mark. That notice was by store and date range.
Cooking and storing ground beef
FSIS says to cook ground beef to 160°F, and that the only way to confirm it's hot enough to kill harmful bacteria is a food thermometer that measures internal temperature. An instant-read food thermometer does that. FDA also says to keep the refrigerator at 40°F or below and the freezer at 0°F or below, and to check with an appliance thermometer. A fridge and freezer thermometer set is a small cost for that.
What to do if you own a recalled product
- Don't eat it or serve it. FSIS notices usually say to throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase.
- Read the notice for the product names, establishment number and dates it covers, and who to contact.
- Contact the company listed on the notice, not a third party.
- Keep your receipt or a photo of the label if you're asking the store for a refund.
For meat and poultry questions, FSIS runs a hotline at 1-888-674-6854 (888-MPHotline).
See also: how to get a refund for a recalled product and how to check if something you own has been recalled.
Sources:
- USDA FSIS Recalls & Public Health Alerts: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls
- FDA, Safe Food Handling: https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling
Photo: Luis Kuthe / Pexels
ConsumerSun is not affiliated with CPSC, FDA, USDA FSIS or NHTSA. Always confirm details on the official recall notice. This page is information, not safety, medical or legal advice. Disclosure · Editorial policy
Frequently asked questions
Who handles beef recalls?
USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) handles recalls of meat, poultry and many egg products.
What is a public health alert?
FSIS issues one when a recall isn't possible, for example when the product is no longer available for purchase.
What temperature should ground beef be cooked to?
FSIS says to cook ground beef to 160°F, measured with a food thermometer.
Where is the establishment number on ground beef?
Inside the USDA mark of inspection on the package, printed as EST. followed by a number. Ground beef made and wrapped in a store under a retail exemption may not carry one.