E Coli In Cows That Eat Corn
When you think of cows, you may picture them grazing on a lush green pasture. However, the reality is that many cows in the United States are fed a diet of corn. While this may be an efficient way to fatten them up quickly, it also has some negative consequences. One of those consequences is the increased risk of E. coli in cows that eat corn.
What is E. Coli?
E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the intestines of both animals and humans. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, some can cause serious health problems. One strain in particular, known as E. coli O157:H7, is responsible for many outbreaks of foodborne illness every year.
When cows are fed a diet of corn, their digestive systems become more acidic. This change in pH can create an environment that is ideal for the growth of E. coli bacteria. In addition, cows that eat corn are more likely to experience digestive issues, such as acidosis, which can further increase the risk of E. coli contamination.
The Dangers of E. Coli Contamination
If meat from cows that have been contaminated with E. coli is not cooked properly, it can cause serious illness in humans. Symptoms of E. coli infection can include abdominal cramping, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. In severe cases, it can also lead to kidney failure and even death.
Children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms from E. coli infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 265,000 cases of E. coli infection in the United States every year.
The Importance of Proper Feed for Cows
While feeding cows a diet of corn may be a cost-effective way to produce more meat, it comes with some serious risks. In order to reduce the likelihood of E. coli contamination, it is important to ensure that cows are fed a healthy diet that includes grass and other forage.
In addition to reducing the risk of E. coli contamination, feeding cows a healthy diet can also have other benefits. For example, cows that are allowed to graze on grass tend to produce meat that is higher in beneficial nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid.
The Bottom Line
While E. coli contamination in cows that eat corn is a serious concern, it is not a reason to avoid beef altogether. By ensuring that meat is cooked properly and by buying from responsible farmers who feed their cows a balanced diet, the risk of E. coli infection can be greatly reduced.
If you are concerned about the safety of your meat, look for labels that indicate that the meat has been raised on grass or other forage. These meats are generally considered to be safer and more nutritious than meats from cows that have been fed a diet of corn.