EP 1/2: Cafeteria Outbreak ----------------------------------------- A contaminated ingredient in the hospital cafeteria has far-reaching consequences. E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a group of bacteria that is commonly found in the gut of healthy individuals and warm-blooded animals. While many strains are harmless, some like the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) can cause severe foodborne disease. Primary sources of E. coli outbreaks include undercooked meat, unpasteurized beverages, and raw