Deadly Burgers

A CASE OF INDIGESTION AFTER EATING FAST FOOD IS one of the hazards of modern life. Something quite different happened when severe food poisoning struck hundreds of people in Washington, Idaho and Nevada who had dined at Jack in the Box restaurants. Doctors are blaming a savage strain of E. coli bacteria first identified 10 years ago. Somehow the germs infected a shipment of hamburger meat, which was then undercooked in restaurant kitchens. Two children died, only one of whom had eaten at Jack in the Box. This suggested that the bacteria could in some cases spread to people who did not visit the chain.

All the tainted food has been recalled, company officials announced. And they say they have changed their cooking methods so that the meat is grilled longer and at higher temperatures. Since Jack in the Box did not violate any federal rules, health officials argue that the tragedy underscores the need for more stringent guidelines in food inspection and preparation.