Cook County food company recalls meat products from stores, restaurants

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A B2B distribution company that supplies meat to stores and restaurants in Chicago has issued a recall to its customers.

Chicago-based El Cubano Wholesale Meats is recalling approximately 169,620 pounds of beef cheek meat products that may be contaminated with E.coli, the Illinois Department of Agriculture announced Thursday.

Store and restaurant employees should look for the establishment number "EST. 4653a" inside the USDA mark of inspection and the establishment name "Iowa Best Beef." These products were distributed by El Cubano to retail stores and restaurants in Chicago for the purpose of preparing cooked dishes for the general public.

Labels of the products have an instructional statement "For Cooking Only."

The problem was discovered by IDOA personnel during routine inspection. IDOA is concerned that some product may be frozen in restaurants/retail store freezers. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider immediately.