CDC Warns of 'Cannibal Sandwiches': Wisconsin Residents Sickened by Raw Meat

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed over a dozen cases of food-borne illnesses from those who consumed what they're referring to as "Cannibal sandwiches."

"Despite ongoing outreach efforts addressing the dangers associated with consuming undercooked or raw ground beef, this regional holiday tradition continues to be associated with outbreaks," the CDC said, according to Reuters.

The Wisconsin tradition involves eating raw ground beef between two pieces of cocktail bread. The meat in the appetizers are prepared with sliced raw onion and seasoned with salt and pepper. Unfortunately, the dish has sickened 13 area residents.  

E. coli, known as a common bacteria that's found in red meat, was reportedly linked to four of the cases.

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are many strains of E. coli, but only a few may trigger dangerous symptoms, including things such as diarrhea, dehydration and abdominal cramps. An untreated infection can even lead to kidney failure, according to the health organization.

The Associated Press (AP) notes that both the state health and agriculture departments warned residents on Thursday that they should avoid eating "cannibal sandwiches" so as not to risk an E. coli outbreak.

"The CDC urged retailers to discourage customers from consuming raw ground beef, which it said should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius)," according to Reuters. 

The CDC also notes that eating the traditional sandwich reportedly led to 50 severe cases of sickness in 1972 alone in Wisconsin, and several in 2012, as well.

Maybe the name "Cannibal sandwiches" will sway some from eating this traditional and potentially deadly treat? We can only hope.