Health Alert Issued for Beef Koftas Linked to E. Coli Outbreak at The Kebab Shop
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert Over 'The Kebab Shop' Koftas
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a health alert for beef kofta from The Kebab Shop after it was linked to an E. coli outbreak affecting nine individuals. The product was removed from menus, and the risk of ongoing exposure is low.
- 01The beef kofta linked to the outbreak was produced by Olympia Food Industries in Illinois and sold in The Kebab Shop locations across California, Texas, and Florida.
- 02Nine confirmed illnesses have been reported in California, with five hospitalizations and two cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
- 03Symptoms of E. coli infection can include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, appearing 2 to 8 days after exposure.
- 04FSIS advises consumers who experienced symptoms after eating the kofta to seek medical attention and inform healthcare providers of their exposure.
- 05The Kebab Shop voluntarily ceased selling beef kofta at all 50 locations prior to the alert, and the affected product is no longer available.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert regarding beef kofta served at The Kebab Shop, which has been linked to an E. coli outbreak. The alert, issued on May 24, 2026, followed positive tests for Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC) O157:H7 in product samples. While no formal recall was necessary as the product was already removed from menus, the alert affects The Kebab Shop locations in California, Texas, and Florida. Health officials reported nine confirmed illnesses in California, with five hospitalizations and two severe cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of E. coli infection typically manifest 2 to 8 days after exposure and can include severe stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. FSIS recommends that anyone who consumed the affected beef kofta and experiences symptoms contact a healthcare provider. The investigation is ongoing, but the immediate risk appears to be contained.
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The health alert may affect consumers who dined at The Kebab Shop and raises awareness about food safety.
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