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Topps shuts down in second largest beef recall

10/08/2007

Facing the second largest beef recall in U.S. history, what one news outlet called an entire year's production for the company, Topps Meat Co., Elizabeth N.J., began shutting down on Oct. 5; 87 people will be let go.

At last count, 32 people in eight states became ill from E. coli bacteria found in the company's beef patties, although no one has died. Topps suspended production on Sept. 26 when it issued the first of a series of recalls, which now have grown to 21.7 million lbs. Topps is not a slaughterhourse, but it grinds beef parts into patties, most of which are sold at supermarkets and institutions.

Click here to see Topps' own statement about the recall and shutdown.