WASHINGTON (WSAZ) -- A ground beef recall connected to concerns of E. coli bacteria includes all three states in our region, according to a USDA news release.

Tyson Fresh Meats Inc. is recalling nearly 41,000 pounds of ground beef products.

The following products are subject to recall:

• 10-pound chubs of “CHUCK FINE GROUND BEEF 80/20,” packed in cases containing eight chubs.

• The products subject to recall have a “BEST BEFORE OR FREEZE BY” date of “11/13/11” and “EST. 245C” on the box label. The products were shipped to institutions and distributors in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

The problem was discovered through routine monitoring which confirmed a positive result for E. coli. However, the company has not received reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products.

E. coli can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to food-borne illness.

Consumers are advised to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160° F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature.

Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact the company at (866) 328-3156.