Kids hospitalized as California investigates E. coli outbreak linked to The Kebab Shop

California health officials are investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to beef kofta sold at The Kebab Shop that has infected nine people, including six children, and hospitalized five victims across the state.

The California Department of Public Health said the illnesses were connected to grilled beef kofta served at locations in both Northern and Southern California. 

Investigators identified the seasoned ground beef kebab as the likely source after interviewing people who became sick.

The outbreak involves a strain of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), with reported illness dates stretching from March 27 through April 30. 

Two patients developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a dangerous complication that can trigger acute kidney failure. 

No deaths have been reported.

State officials announced that The Kebab Shop voluntarily halted sales of grilled beef kofta at all locations on May 18 while cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Health authorities said the threat is not believed to be continuing because the beef product tied to the outbreak was distributed only to The Kebab Shop.

Symptoms of STEC infection can include stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea that is often bloody. 

According to officials, symptoms typically appear three to four days after exposure, though severe illness can develop in young children and other vulnerable groups.

Consumers who ate beef kofta from the popular restaurant chain and become sick within 10 days are being urged to contact a health care provider. 

Officials also advised customers to throw away any leftover grilled beef kofta purchased from the chain.

The Kebab Shop addressed the outbreak in a statement posted on its website, outlining several actions taken after state investigators connected the product to the illnesses.

The company said it “immediately stopped all sales of ground beef (beef kofta) nationwide on May 18, 2026, after CDPH linked the product as a potential source of the outbreak.”

The chain also stated there is “no ongoing risk associated with this issue” and emphasized that all other proteins sold at its restaurants come from different suppliers and are not tied to the outbreak.

According to the statement, locations inspected during the investigation were found to be in compliance with health and safety rules.