HOUSTON -- Kroger grocery stores have voluntarily recalled more than a half-million pounds of ground beef that has been linked to E. coli illnesses, KPRC Local 2 reported Thursday.

The United States Department of Agriculture said Nebraska Beef, based in Omaha, supplied the potentially tainted beef.

Kroger has recalled ground beef products in Styrofoam tray packages wrapped in clear cellophane or purchased from an in-store service counter with sell by dates between May 21 and July 3.

Store officials said anyone who has purchased the recalled beef may return it to the store for a full refund or replacement.

Kroger has removed all of the recalled beef from its cases and has placed signs in the meat department to let customers know about the recall.

Officials said ground beef sold in sealed tubes in one, three and five-pound packages and frozen ground beef patties are not part of the recall.

For more information, visit Kroger's Web site or call 800-632-6900.