Following E. coli contamination, about one million pounds of ground beef was recalled by a meat processor. Reports state that seven people were sickened by E. coli contamination.

The U. S. Department of Agriculture said that the potentially contaminated beef patties and ground beef was sold by Valley Meat Co., of Modesto, Calif., in Arizona, California, Oregon, Texas, and internationally.

From October 2, 2009, to January 12, 2010, the beef was processed. Most of the products were sold frozen. For identifying the stores where the products were sold, the company was working with the USDA for removing the items from shelves.

According to department spokesman Neil Gaffney, in three to 10 working days a list of retailers will be made by the USDA.

Valley Meat said, “This is the first recall in our history and we will investigate the matter thoroughly and take any measures deemed necessary to further elevate our safety standards, protect consumers, and ensure confidence in our products.”

The reason that led to the recall was a cluster of E. coli related illnesses notified by the California Department of Health to USDA in mid-July.