Health Officials Investigate E. Coli Outbreak Linked to The Kebab Shop
California public health officials are currently investigating an E. Coli outbreak linked to seasoned ground beef kebabs served at The Kebab Shop locations across the state. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported that nine residents have been infected with the outbreak strain of Shiga toxin-producing E. Coli O157:H7, or STEC.
The individuals affected experienced illness onset between March 27 and April 30. Of the nine cases, six were children. Five of the individuals required hospitalization and two of those patients developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe complication associated with STEC that can lead to kidney failure. Health officials confirmed that there have been no deaths resulting from the outbreak.
Source Identification and Response
Following a thorough investigation, officials identified grilled beef kofta served at The Kebab Shop as the likely source of the infection. The Poway-based restaurant chain voluntarily paused sales of the product at all locations on May 18. According to the company, the implicated beef was sourced from a single supplier.
Arian Baryalai, CEO of The Kebab Shop, stated, “At The Kebab Shop (TKS), the health and safety of our guests, our team members, and our communities are at the heart of everything we do. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has informed us that cases of E. Coli O157:H7 have been linked to ground beef (beef kofta) sourced from a single supplier and previously used at our restaurants. We ask anyone experiencing symptoms to seek proper medical attention and contact the California Department of Public Health.”
Public Health Guidance
The CDPH indicated that the risk of exposure to the product is not ongoing, as the implicated beef was reportedly distributed only to The Kebab Shop. While the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify the specific cause of the outbreak and are monitoring for any additional cases.
Symptoms of STEC infection—which typically include vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that is often bloody—generally manifest three to four days after exposure. Health authorities advise anyone who consumed the beef kofta and developed symptoms within 10 days to consult a healthcare provider. Any remaining grilled beef kofta from the restaurant chain should be discarded.
To prevent further illness, health officials reiterated the importance of cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160 degrees and ensuring that all surfaces or utensils that come into contact with raw or undercooked meat are properly washed and sanitized.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As the investigation proceeds, agencies are expected to continue conducting product testing to determine the precise origin of the contamination. The Kebab Shop is coordinating with public health authorities and has opened channels for concerned guests. Customers may contact the company at 888-965-5821 from 10 a.m. To 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, and throughout the Memorial Day weekend, May 23–24, 2026. Alternatively, inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].
