ASHVILLE, N.Y. — A cluster of foodborne illnesses in the New England region caused by E. coli O157:H7 has led Fairbank Farms to recall approximately 545,000 lbs of fresh ground beef. At least one death in New Hampshire has been associated with the recall.

"Our current priorities are to inform the public and address their concerns," said Ron Allen, chief executive officer. "Further, we want to help them to identify and remove any of the recalled products that may be in their freezers."

Retailers in the region pulling ground beef from store shelves include B.J.’s Wholesale, Giant, Lancaster, Price Chopper, Shaw’s, Trader Joe’s and Wild Harvest.