E. Coli (Escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that can get into your food, such as beef, through cattle. It is not always harmful to you, as it normally lives inside of your intestines, and helps break down food. If a bad strain somehow gets into your bloodstream from your intestines, you can get very sick. You can find more information here: http://kidshealth.org/kid/stay_healthy/food/ecoli.html#
