State health officials probe e-coli outbreak linked to Kebab Shop
The Mercury News • • business
Key Points:
- California health authorities are investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to seasoned ground beef kebabs (beef kofta) served at The Kebab Shop, a Bay Area restaurant chain with nine locations.
- As of May 19, 2026, nine residents have been infected with the outbreak strain, with illness onset dates between March 27 and April 30; no deaths have been reported.
- The E. coli strain produces Shiga toxin, causing symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps; while most recover within a week, some cases may require hospitalization.
- The Kebab Shop voluntarily paused sales of grilled beef kofta at all locations on May 18 and is cooperating fully with public health officials.
- Authorities indicate the risk of exposure is currently not ongoing and that the implicated beef product was distributed exclusively to The Kebab Shop.