Food Poisoning Law Blog

USDA to List Stores That Have Received Recalled Meat and Poultry

2008-07-11T18:52:00.003-05:00

A new food safety precaution will go into effect next month. According to a USDA news release, USDA will begin listing those retail stores that have received meat products that have been listed as Class I recalls.

Class I recalls are those recalls that pose the most serious threat to public health. In Class I recalls, the recall “is one that involves a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or death for those with weakened immune systems,” according to the USDA.

According to the USDA press release, "The identity of retail stores with recalled meat and poultry from their suppliers has always been a missing piece of information for the public during a recall," said Schafer. "People want to know if they need to be on the lookout for recalled meat and poultry from their local store and by providing lists of retail outlets during recalls, USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service will improve public health protection by better informing consumers."

In the future, after a Class I recall is issued, “USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) will post on its Web site a list of retail stores that receive products subject to Class I recalls, the highest risk category, generally within three to ten business days of issuing the recall release.”

Once this information is made available, the USDA hopes that consumers will use the information from this list and discard any products in their possession that may be contaminated.

While the USDA will be posting recalls for retail centers which includes businesses such as supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores and meat markets, this list will not include restaurants or other institutions where food is prepared for direct consumption.

We have been calling on the USDA to take this action and welcome the additional information provided for consumers. However, we regret that restaurants and other institutions will not be listed. We feel that consumers need to know if they have been exposed to potentially-contaminated food.

HC Fresh Frozen Croaker Recall

2008-04-03T08:44:00.003-05:00

Grand Supercenter, Inc. of Lyndhurst, NJ has announced an HC Fresh frozen croaker recall due to possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause botulism. Botulism is a potentially-fatal form of food poisoning.

the recalled HC Fresh frozen salted croaker was distributed through H Mart stores including H Mart and Super H Mart in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Texas area. The HC Fresh frozen croaker recall announcement provides the following description of the recalled croaker:

HC Fresh, Frozen Salted Croaker,
Net. Wt.: 16.9 oz (480 gram),
Item # HC 0500402,
Expiration Date: Aug 02. 2009

FDA is warning consumers not to use these products even if they do not look or smell spoiled.

If someone has consumed the recalled croaker, they should watch for botulism symptoms, which may include the following: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention. If someone is diagnosed with botulism, they or a family member should contact a botulism lawyer immediately.

Published April 2008.

Government Report "FDA and Fresh Spinach Safety"

2008-03-28T12:39:00.004-05:00

In 2006, an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak was linked to packaged fresh spinach. 205 people were had laboratory-confirmed cases of the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7.1 According to the FDA, this was the 20th major outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in fresh lettuce or spinach since 1995.2

This month, the United States House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform issued a report on their investigation into the Food and Drug Administration’s efforts to protect the safety of packaged fresh spinach entitled, “FDA and Fresh Spinach Safety.” As part of the investigation, the committee requested and received inspection records for all FDA inspections of firms producing packaged fresh spinach from 2001 to 2007. The committee’s investigation of the FDA inspection records revealed that during this time period the FDA did not providing adequate oversight of packaged spinach plants and did not take enforcement actions when FDA inspectors observed and reported “objectionable conditions” at the plants. Instead the FDA requested voluntary compliance after recording violations, and there were numerous violations.

Alamosa, Colorado, Salmonella Outbreak

2008-03-27T09:03:00.003-05:00

A story in The Denver Post gives a glimpse into the pain suffered by one small victim of the Salmonella outbreak linked to the Alamosa, Colorado, water system. At least 237 residents have reported experiencing symptoms of Salmonella. There have been 72 lab-confirmed cases.

According to The Denver Post story, Miya Spangler, one of the lab-confirmed cases, became ill last Tuesday:

"Last Tuesday she woke up after midnight crying. She had a really high fever and bad diarrhea," said Miya's mother, 20-year-old Amanda Spangler.
"I had a really bad feeling about it," she said.

She took her daughter to the doctor the day officials realized they were in the grip of a salmonella outbreak caused by contaminated city drinking water.

"I felt terrible because I gave her the bottle, the formula, that made her sick," Amanda said. "For two days she had no expression on her face. She just lay there."

Miya's father, Joey, said that for part of her week-long illness his daughter was either asleep or crying.

The water was bad, so her parents couldn't bathe her to bring down her temperature, which her mother said topped out at 105.9 degrees.

The baby had a terrible rash. She threw up. She had blood in her stool, her mother said.

Posted March 2008.

Washington Cantaloupe Recall

2008-03-25T12:54:00.003-05:00

Charlie's Produce of Spokane, Washington has recalled Charlie's Produce Brand Cut Cantaloupe Products, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

The products recalled by Charlie's Produce Spokane include the following fruit items containing cut cantaloupe:

Retail Products:

* Cut Fruit 4 Section – 40oz
* Cut Cantaloupe – 24oz, 16oz, 8oz
* Cut Honeydew/Cantaloupe - 16oz
* Mixed Fruit –24oz, 16oz, 8oz
* Rainbow - 24oz, 16oz, 8oz
* Cut Fruit Tray Deli – 12', 8'
* Cut Fruit Tray - 76oz, 40oz 8'
* Grab & Go Fruit Tray - 16oz

Foodservice Products:

* Cut Cantaloupe – 20lb, 64oz
* Cut Mixed Fruit – 20lb, 64oz

The above products containing cantaloupe were distributed in Eastern Washington, Idaho, and Montana to retail stores, delis, and foodservice institutions.

Products are branded with the Charlie's Produce name and logo, in a hard plastic clamshell, with a Use By date of 3 07 through 3 29 stamped on the bottom of the container.

No illnesses have been reported to date. There have been 9 cases of Salmonella Litchfield in Washington linked to cantaloupe

Cantaloupe used in these products may have been supplied from Agropecuaria Montelibano, a Honduran grower and packer, to Charlie's Produce Spokane. This recall was initiated when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an import alert regarding Agropecuaria Montelibano cantaloupe from this grower, because, based on current information, fruit from this company appears to be associated with a Salmonella Litchfield outbreak in the United States and Canada.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for full refund. If someone has been sickened by the Charlie's Produce cantaloupe, a Salmonella attorney should be contacted immediately, and the leftover cantaloupe should not be discarded or returned for a refund.

California Alfalfa Sprouts Recall Due to Salmonella Risk

2008-03-25T11:50:00.003-05:00

Dr. Mark Horton, director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), today warned consumers not to eat Kowalke Family brand alfalfa sprout products because they may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness. The firm is voluntarily recalling these products because the alfalfa sprout seeds used to produce them were found to be contaminated with Salmonella. No illnesses have been associated with Kowalke Family Sprout Inc. alfalfa sprouts.

Kowalke Family Sprouts Inc. products are distributed to retail stores, including stores in the Farmer's Markets food chain, Whole Foods and Gelson's Supermarkets.

All alfalfa, onion/alfalfa mix, cauliflower/alfalfa mix and dinner salad mix products are affected by the recall. Alfalfa products are in 4-ounce, 8-
ounce, 1-pound and 5-pound packages. The dinner salad is in an 8-ounce
package. The cauliflower/alfalfa combo and onion/alfalfa mix are in 4-ounce packages. The products in question have sell-by dates from March 4 through March 26. The codes are located on the front label of the packages.

CDPH continues to advise consumers about the risk of consuming raw sprouts.
Conditions required for sprout growing are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts usually are eaten raw with no additional treatment such as cooking which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider.

Consumers who purchased these products should immediately discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. If someone has been sickened by the alfalfa sprouts, a Salmonella lawyer should be contacted immediately and the alfalfa sprouts should not be discarded or returned for a refund.

Posted March 2008.

Cantaloupe Recall and Salmonella Litchfield

2008-03-22T22:58:00.001-05:00

March 22, 2008 - The FDA has issued an import alert regarding entry of cantaloupe from Agropecuaria Montelibano, a Honduran grower and packer, because, based on current information, fruit from this company appears to be associated with a Salmonella Litchfield outbreak in the United States and Canada. Learn more about the Salmonella outbreak associated with a Agropecuaria Montelibano canteloupe recall.

Langostino Recall Due to Listeria Risk

2008-03-15T10:41:00.002-05:00

Slade Gorton & Co has issued a voluntary recall of its "ICYBAY" cooked, ready to eat, frozen langostinos because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled langostinos retail in one pound, clear plastic package marked with UPC 0-73129-61672-8 on the top and with an expiration date of June 2009 and is distributed under the brand name of "ICYBAY". The recalled langostinos were also distributed to wholesale accounts, also under the "ICYBAY" brand, in five pound clear plastic packages containing either 70-90 count, 90-125 count or 120-150 count. This recall involves production dates of July 18, 2007 through August 13, 2007 and/or Julian dates of 199 through 232.

The recalled "ICYBAY" cooked langostinos were distributed to retailers in Massachusetts and Maryland, over the course of the past several weeks. The majority of the retail distribution was removed from shelves immediately upon notice of the potential of contamination. The recalled "ICYBAY" cooked langostinos were distributed to wholesalers in Colorado, Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

The potential for contamination was noted after a Canadian government laboratory, CFIA, found that one sample was believed to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
No illnesses (listeriosis) have been reported to date in connection with this product.

President Kim Gorton said her company, one of the largest private seafood distributors in the United States, strictly follows HACCP procedures and FDA guidelines for testing its seafood products to ensure their wholesomeness and safety.

She said that "while the report from Canada only involves a small sample of the langostinos, we are issuing this voluntary recall, as a precautionary measure, out of concern for the health and safety of the consuming public."

Distribution of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue to confirm testing and investigate the source of any potential problem. Slade Gorton & Co. will use an independent testing service to determine the accuracy of the Canadian findings.

Posted March 2008.

Fisher's Dairy Listeria Risk

2008-03-13T15:14:00.004-05:00

Raw milk from Fisher’s Dairy in Portersville, Pennsylvania, may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. In 2006, Fisher's Dairy gave up its raw milk permit, but state inspectors found that the dairy had begun selling raw milk again without a permit.

“During an investigation of the dairy, inspectors purchased raw milk which tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes," said Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. "If consumers have raw milk from this farm, they should discard it immediately."

No illnesses have been reported as a result of the potential Listeria contamination, but if people who consumed the raw milk become ill, they should consult their physicians.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has detained all milk products at the farm. Samples were taken from the farm on March 6, and tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes on March 10.

Symptoms of a Listeria infection (listeriosis) are fever, muscle aches, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or convulsions can occur.

Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness, but infections during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. (Read about Listeria/listeriosis miscarriage.)

Symptoms of listeriosis can appear in four days to two months. To date, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has not received any reports of illness related to the Fisher's Dairy Listeria risk.

Posted March 2008.

Salmonella Recall: Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix

2008-03-12T14:17:00.002-05:00

The Quaker Oats Co. has announced an Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix recall. The recall involves a “small quantity” of Aunt Jemima Pancake & Waffle Mix: Original, Original Complete and Buttermilk Complete, which may have potential Salmonella contamination. No other Aunt Jemima, frozen Aunt Jemima or Quaker products are affected.

The products, sold in 2 pound and 5 pound boxes with Best Before dates of FEB 08 09 H through FEB 16 09 H stamped on the top, contain the following UPC codes:

30000 43272: Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Complete, 5 lb.
30000 05040: Aunt Jemima Original, 2 lb.
30000 05070: Aunt Jemima Original Complete, 2 lb.
30000 05300: Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Complete, 2 lb.

Quaker is in the process of recovering the product involved. Quaker knows specifically to which customer warehouses the product was shipped. Approximately 98% of the product is within Quaker's control. The 2% of product which is outside of Quaker's control was shipped to a limited number of retail and mass merchandiser stores (no direct distribution to West Coast). Of that small quantity, the vast majority likely has not been placed on store shelves. Product was shipped to 17 states including Texas, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Illinois, Florida, Missouri, Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Ohio, New York, New Mexico, Kansas and Utah.

Posted March 2008.

Sekiya's Restaurant E. coli Investigation: Hawaii DOH Reinstates Permit

2008-03-12T13:54:00.004-05:00

An investigation into 7 cases of E. coli O157:H7 in Honolulu, Hawaii concluded that all seven individuals had a history of consuming food prepared at Sekiya’s Restaurant and Delicatessen located at 2746 Kaimuki Avenue in Honolulu. 6 of these cases had been diagnosed in December 2007; the seventh, in February 2008. The February case prompted the Hawai‘i State Department of Health (DOH) to issue a Notice of Permit Suspension to Sekiya’s effective February 23, 2008 due to reported illnesses. The restaurant closed at that time to conduct intensive prevention measures.

DOH has reinstated the permit for Sekiya’s to conduct food service operations once again. According to a DOH press release, the restaurant passed its final inspection on Monday night following the completion of an intensive mitigation plan developed with the DOH that included extensive food safety measures taken by the ownership, management and staff with oversight and guidance provided by their private food safety consultant and the DOH.

Prior to the final inspection, Sekiya’s Restaurant completed a number of corrective measures that included: hiring a private food safety consultant; removing all food products and supplies; complete disinfection and cleaning of the entire restaurant; management and staff taking a comprehensive course of study on food safety via classes provided by the DOH; and outlining active managerial controls to ensure that the provisions of the state’s food code are adhered to.

Larry Lau, Deputy Director for Environmental Health said, “The owners and management of Sekiya’s Restaurant have given us their full cooperation, and we feel confident that they are now in compliance with state food safety codes.”

Is E. coli O157:H7 Becoming More Virulent?

2008-03-12T11:07:00.004-05:00

A phylogenetic analysis of E. coli O157:H7 has found that recombination or recurrent mutation has contributed to the evolution of E. coli O157:H7 into more virulent strains. The research was prompted by several recent outbreaks involving E. coli O157:H7 (e.g., 2006 spinach E. coli outbreak) that were “associated with more severe disease, as defined by higher hemolytic uremic syndrome and hospitalization frequencies, suggesting that increased virulence has evolved.”

500 E. coli O157:H7 clinical strains were analyzed and separated into 9 distinct clades:

Differences were observed between clades in the frequency and distribution of Shiga toxin genes and in the type of clinical disease reported. Patients with hemolytic uremic syndrome were significantly more likely to be infected with clade 8 strains, which have increased in frequency over the past 5 years. Genome sequencing of a spinach outbreak strain, a member of clade 8, also revealed substantial genomic differences. These findings suggest that an emergent subpopulation of the clade 8 lineage has acquired critical factors that contribute to more severe disease.

Read the results of this study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.

As part of this study, Thomas Whittam, Hannah Distinguished Professor at the National Food Safety and Toxicology Center at Michigan State University and David Alland of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, two co-authors of the study, developed a new technique to test E. coli O157:H7 DNA.

Posted March 2008.

New Technique to Test DNA of E. coli Bacteria

2008-03-11T13:46:00.006-05:00

Michigan State University has developed a new technique to test the DNA of E. coli bacteria by examining very small genetic changes called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs (pronounced snips). Using SNPs, scientists analyzed 96 markers, making genetic analysis of pathogenic bacteria possible at a rate never before accomplished.

“It used to take three months to score one gene individually,” said Thomas Whittam, Hannah Distinguished Professor at the National Food Safety and Toxicology Center at MSU. “Now, we are working on a new, more rapid system that can do thousands of genes per day.”

In a new study released in the Monday edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, “Variation in Virulence Among Clades of Escherichia coli O157:H7 Associated With Disease Outbreaks,” Whittam and his co-authors looked at the DNA of more than 500 strains of a particularly dangerous member of the E. coli family, O157:H7. In collaboration with David Alland of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Whittam discovered that individual bacteria could be separated into nine major groups, called clades.

E coli makes people sick because they produce toxins, called Shiga toxins. These toxins block protein synthesis, an essential cellular function, particularly in the kidneys. What Whittam found was that the different clades produced different kinds of Shiga toxins in varying amounts based on their DNA.

“For the first time, we know why some outbreaks cause serious infections and diseases and others don’t,” Whittam said. “The different E. coli groups produce different toxins.”
Rapid genetic characterization also opens up a new world of possibilities for identifying the bacterial culprits in outbreaks and finding out where they originated.

“This is the first time anyone has been able to classify very closely related groups,” Whittam said. “This is also the first time we can tell the differences in how they cause disease.”

Whittam also has plans to use this methodology to study other bacterial strains, like Shigella, a major cause of diarrhea around the world. “This new equipment can be used to identify hundreds of thousands of pathogenic bacteria,” Whittam said.

Source: Michigan State University press release.

Posted March 2008.

Gourmet Boutique Chicken Recall Due to Listeria Risk

2008-03-06T09:09:00.004-06:00

Gourmet Boutique, L.L.C., a New York firm, has recalled approximately 6,970 pounds of meat and poultry products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

According to the USDA-FSIS Gourmet Boutique recall announcement, the following products are subject to recall: [View Labels, PDF Only]

6-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE HONEY CHICKEN SALAD." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE CHICKEN MARSALA." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST IN TERIYAKI SAUCE, PORTION CONTROL." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
6-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE GRILLED LEMON CHICKEN, PORTION CONTROL." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
6-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE GRILLED LEMON CHICKEN, PORTION CONTROL, Keep Frozen." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE Home Style Chicken Salad." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
4-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE Grilled Chicken B&E PRET A MANGER." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3.5-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE Breaded and Fried Chicken Cutlet." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3.125-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE ITALIAN STALLION TWISTER." Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
8-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE Meatloaf with Gravy KIT." Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
4.6-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE CHICKEN BURRITO." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
3.125-pound bulk packages of "GOURMET BOUTIQUE TURKEYCLUB TWISTER." Each package bears the establishment number "P-18799" inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The recalled products bear the production code of "GBD 08058" on the package. The meat and poultry products were produced on Feb. 26 and 27, 2008, and were sent to retail establishments in Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Wisconsin, and distribution centers in New York.

The problem was discovered through FSIS microbiological sampling. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product, which is no surprise because the incubation period for Listeria can be as long as 70 days. Pregnant women who ate the above products should contact their medical provider, particularly if they experience flu-like symptoms. About one third of the cases of Listeria infection (listeriosis) in the United States involve pregnancies. Read about Listeria pregnancy and Listeria/listeriosis miscarriage.

Posted March 2008.

Stop and Shop Recall: Deli Chicken Entrees and Listeria Risk

2008-03-06T08:48:00.007-06:00

There have been a rash of related chicken entrée recalls due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This is a multi-state problem involving a number of retail grocers. The following is from a press release issued by The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, which recalled four types of prepared chicken:

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company is voluntarily recalling four types of prepared chicken because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The affected products were sold at the deli counter, both in bulk and prepackaged in various weights. The recall covers all of the following items sold on or after Feb. 26, 2008:

-- Breaded Chicken Cutlet (labeled GB BRD CHIX CUTLETS or GB BR CHIX
CUTLTS)
-- Chicken Marsala (labeled GB CHIX MARSALA)
-- Grilled Lemon Chicken (labeled GB GR LEMON CHIX or GB GR LNI CHCKN)
-- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (labeled GB GR TERIYKI CHIX or GB GR TRYKI
CHICKN)

Upon being notified of the recall by the supplier, Stop & Shop immediately removed all recalled products from sale. To date, Stop & Shop has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products. [ Note from Pritzker | Ruohonen: This is no surprise because the incubation period for Listeria can be as long as 70 days. Pregnant women who ate the above products should contact their medical provider, particularly if they experience flu-like symptoms. About one third of the cases of Listeria infection (listeriosis) in the United States involve pregnancies. Read about Listeria pregnancy and Listeria/listeriosis miscarriage.]

E. coli and HUS: Two Stories of Survival

2008-03-04T14:04:00.005-06:00

With massive recalls of ground beef and other products such as spinach due to E. coli contamination clouding the food supply, the rise of dangerous diseases has been affecting individuals across the nation. If a person becomes infected with E. coli bacteria, the infection can often lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

HUS is characterized by damage and destruction of the red blood cells, which leads to a lower than normal number of red blood cells (a condition called anemia), blood clots, and damage to blood vessel walls. In the most severe cases, HUS can include damage to the kidneys, which can lead to failure of the kidneys (renal failure). Other complications that can accompany the illness are thrombocytopenia (platelet deficiency in the blood) and neurologic signs, including irritability and, very rarely, seizures.

A Minnesota woman recently awoke from a medically-induced coma due to HUS. 21 years of age, and recovering in Rochester, Minnesota, she contracted an E. coli infection from a contaminated burger that she ate. She is still expected to spend many more months recovering from her illness. Her story and a video can be found at KARE 11.

A child from New Mexico also developed HUS around the time of the spinach E. coli outbreak in July 2006. His parents took him to the Children’s Hospital at the University of New Mexico, and three days after being admitted his kidneys failed.

According to the Valencia County News Bulletin,

Things quickly cascaded from bad to worse — Kevin's lungs filled with fluid, he developed pancreatitis, he required blood transfusions and daily dialysis. "We didn't know when it was going to stop," his mother (Carolyn) remembers.

After five weeks of ups and downs, Kevin's kidneys began functioning again, but they are scared and damaged. "Most kids do recover, but with the scar tissue we have a long road ahead," Carolyn said. "We are probably looking at a transplant at some point. The doctors can't say when because they aren't sure what his body will do."

Kevin is recovering and at home with his parents, but he and his family are working to make the public aware of the dangers of HUS. Appearing in commercials and hosting a radiothon, Kevin is doing all he can to benefit the hospital that helped save his life. The radiothon is being broadcast on 100.3 The Peak.

There is currently no good way to battle E. coli infections and patients are often left to “fight it out.” With the risks associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), it is important to keep E. coli contaminated products away from consumers and to utilize measures to keep the food supply safe.

Discover Cuisine Chicken Recall Due to Listeria - Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio

2008-03-03T09:42:00.004-06:00

Meijer Distribution Center, a Michigan firm, has voluntarily recalled approximately 2,184 pounds of frozen chicken entrées that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS).

The following product is subject to recall:

12-ounce packages of “Discover Cuisine ™ Red Curry Chicken & Jasmine Rice.” Each package bears the Canadian establishment number “Est. 302” inside the Canadian Food Inspection Agency mark of inspection as well as a “Best By” date of “12 18 08.”

The recalled frozen chicken entrées were produced on Oct. 18, 2007, and were sent to distributors and retail establishments in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.

The problem was discovered through FSIS microbiological sampling. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of the recalled .

Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease (Listeria/listeriosis wrongful death). Healthy people rarely contract listeriosis. However, listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths (Listeria/listeriosis miscarriage), as well as serious and sometimes fatal infections (Listeria meningitis) in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy.

Posted March 2008 - Listeria Lawyer.

Trader Joes Alfalfa Sprout Recall Due to Salmonella Risk

2008-03-03T09:30:00.004-06:00

J.H. Caldwell and Sons Inc. of Maywood, Calif., has recalled Always Fresh and Alfa One alfalfa sprouts due to possible contamination with Salmonella. The recalled sprouts were distributed to wholesale distributors and retail grocery stores in California, including Beach Market, KV Mart and Superior Warehouse, and to Trader Joes grocery stores in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

The J.H. Caldwell and Sons recalled alfalfa sprouts are labeled Always Fresh and Alfa One. The products are packaged in 4 ounce and 5 ounce containers and in plastic bags. The recalled product codes are 202182, 202192, 202202, 202212, 202222, 202232, 202242, 202252, 202262 and 202272. The code is printed on the side of the containers and on the back of the plastic bag.

Sprouts have been the source of a number of Salmonella outbreaks. Conditions required for sprout growing are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Also, sprouts usually are eaten raw, with no additional treatment such as cooking which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider. Consumers who are diagnosed with Salmonella infections (salmonellosis) should contact a Salmonella lawyer.

Posted March 2008.

California and Washington Sprout Recall - Alfalfa Sprouts

2008-03-03T09:08:00.004-06:00

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has warned consumers not to eat certain Salad Cosmo alfalfa sprouts because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. Salad Cosmo USA Corp., a California firm, voluntarily recalled the alfalfa sprouts after routine testing detected Salmonella.

"Consumers, especially young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are susceptible to serious infection when exposed to Salmonella," said Dr. Mark Horton, director of CDPH. "Today’s warning is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of foods sold in California."

Salad Cosmo distributed the recalled alfalfa sprouts to retail stores, including SaveMart Supermarket and wholesale distributors throughout California and Washington.

The Salad Cosmo recalled alfalfa sprouts are packaged in 2.5-ounce plastic containers with white and green labels and clear 1-pound bags with blue labeling. Both packages are labeled Salad Cosmo Alfalfa Sprouts. The products have “Use By” codes: 0219, 0220, 0221, 0222, 0223, 0224, 0226, 0227, 0228, 0229, 0302 and 0303. The codes are located on the front label of the 2.5-ounce packages and on the left side of the 1-pound bags near the product name.

CDPH continues to advise consumers about the risk of consuming raw sprouts. Conditions required for sprout growing are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts usually are eaten raw, with no additional treatment such as cooking which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider. If there is diagnosis confirming a Salmonella infection (salmonellosis), a Salmonella lawyer should be contacted.

Posted March 2008.

Four Bean Salad Recall Due to Botulism Risk

2008-02-29T12:32:00.001-06:00

FDA has announced a bean salad recall due to possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism. The manufacturer, Walker's Food Products Company of North Kansas City, Missouri, recalled its 16oz. packages of Four Bean Salad packaged under the Kay’s Gourmet brand name and 5-lb. and 10-lb. containers of Four Bean Salad packaged under the Walker’s Food Products Co. brand name. The containers are round clear plastic packages, which have an expiration date stamped on the bottom surface. The expiration dates subject to recall are 12/23/07 thru 04/5/08.

Walker's Food Products became aware of the problem after being notified by another company they had received beans that had been recalled due to being potentially contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. The manufacturer of the beans and FDA are continuing to investigate the source of this problem.

The recalled Four Bean Salad was distributed to distributors in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa. It may have been repackaged and sold in retail stores. It may also have been served at restaurants.

Consumers are warned not to use the product, even if it does not look or smell spoiled. Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of muscles, abdominal distension, and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

Hallmark/Westland Beef Investigation

2008-02-21T21:16:00.003-06:00

After the recall of 143 million pounds of beef from Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Co., the largest beef recall in United States history, the federal government is beginning an intensive investigation to bring about changes in food safety procedures. The recalled beef was used as part of the National School Lunch Program, headed by the Department of Agriculture. The Government Accountability Office is undergoing the investigation into the school lunch program.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Rep. Rosa DeLauro has scheduled two food-safety hearings for the month of March. Rep. DeLauro heads the House subcommittee which oversees the USDA’s budget. Top USDA officials will be testifying in relation to the recall. Sen. Herb Kohl, subcommittee on agriculture appropriations chairman, has also scheduled a hearing.

Leading executives from multiple food processing companies, including the president of Hallmark/Westland, have been asked by the House Energy and Commerce Committee to appear at another hearing. The House Energy and Commerce Committee has been studying issues of food safety for over a year.

Meanwhile many schools still have the recalled meat available, but have put it aside so that it can be properly dealt with by the proper authorities.

Sell by Date, Best if Used by Date and Expiration Date

2008-02-21T19:52:00.004-06:00

An information government blog, GovGab, provides valuable information on a variety of topics. Today's post defines dates used on food products:

Sell by/pull by date: This is the date that stores pay attention to. If an item hasn't sold by this date, they're supposed to pull it from the shelves. Don't be afraid to buy something on or right before its 'sell by' date; it'll still be good for a while if it's stored properly. How long? That depends on the item. More on that in a minute.

Best if used before/by: Until this date, your food's guaranteed to be at peak freshness if it's been properly stored. After that date, it'll still be safe to consume for a while but the quality won't be as high. So your OJ won't have that "fresh-squeezed taste" anymore. And if you've ever taken a swig of diet soda after the 'best by' date stamped on the bottle, you're familiar with the unmistakable taste of decomposing artificial sweetener. Yum.

Expiration date: This is your food's last hurrah. If you haven't consumed it by this date, toss it. It could make you sick if you try eating or drinking it.

The post also provides links to charts:

Hallmark/Westland Beef Recall

2008-02-19T22:53:00.002-06:00

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has announced the voluntary recall of more than 140 million pounds of raw and frozen beef from the Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Co. of Chino, California. The recall comes as a response to allegations of Westland inhumanely treating cattle and failing to have cattle inspected thoroughly and correctly.

The allegations stem from over two years of Westland failing to have FSIS public health veterinarians inspect cattle that became non-ambulatory after ante-mortem inspection. This is in direct conflict with the FSIS rule of “Prohibition of the Use of Specified Risk Materials for Human Food and Requirements for the Disposition of Non-Ambulatory Disabled Cattle” which was issued in July 2007.

According to the FSIS recall statement:

Some of the Westland Meat Co. branded products were purchased for Federal food and nutrition programs and, since Jan. 30, 2008, USDA has had an administrative hold on all products from Westland Meat Co. in all of these outlets including, in the National School Lunch Program, the Emergency Food Assistance Program and the Food Assistance Program on Indian Reservations. Based on this Class II recall, officials of the Food and Nutrition Service and Agricultural Marketing Service will work closely with State food and nutrition officials to minimize any disruptions caused by the removal and disposal of recalled Westland Meat Co. products.

Westland shut down operations on February 1 and FSIS issued a Notice of Suspension three days later after investigating the plant after receiving allegations of violations. The practices at Westland directly violated the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act.

According to a Q&A release from the FSIS:

The Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Company must first respond to the Notice of Suspension and submit a corrective action plan to address its failure to properly implement the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act and FSIS regulations. FSIS must first verify that the plan they submit fully and completely addresses the findings in the Notice of Suspension to ensure the humane handling and slaughter of animals at the facility.

FSIS is continuing to investigate the plant and the company has yet to take any actions to prevent future violations. The USDA has also expressed intent to reimburse state governments for Westland products received from federal food programs. The USDA is also ending contractual agreements with Westland and will be looking to replace all products that are removed from the food supply. Any of the recalled Westland products must be destroyed according to government guidelines.

Concern over the recalled beef products centers around risks of spreading Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) into the nation’s food supply. However, according to FSIS, the risk of BSE in the Westland meat is:

Negligible. The federal government has an interlocking system of controls to protect the food supply and to prevent animals with signs of central nervous system disorders from entering the food chain. All cattle at the Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Company passed ante-mortem inspection before slaughter.

FSIS also maintains that the health risk is negligible to children who may have consumed Westland products through the School Lunch Program. Westland products were also distributed to African nations such as the Ivory Coast and Angola. The USDA does not believe international trade will be affected due to strict standards that are more thorough than those advised by the World Organization for Animal Health.

A list of specific products being recalled can be found at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/PDF/Recall_005-2008_Release.pdf

Contact information about which schools received Westland products can be found at:
http://www.usda.gov/actions

Hawaii Salmonella Cases Prompt Tuna Recall

2008-02-11T10:34:00.000-06:00

Cases of Salmonella in Hawaii have prompted Choyce Products of Honolulu, Hawaii to recall 5,452 pounds of frozen Yellowfin Tuna. The FDA and the state of Hawaii are conducting a joint investigation of a variety of vendors due to the state receiving Salmonella illness reports between October 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007.

Choyce Products' customers received the recalled cubed tuna in frozen form. The frozen product is packaged in labeled white cardboard shipping boxes containing 22 pounds of product. These boxes each contain 11 2-pound packages of vacuum-packed product in unlabeled plastic bags.

The frozen Yellowfin tuna was distributed on Oahu and most likely reached consumers in the form of a mixed, previously frozen, seafood product through its customers. Choyce Products received the tuna from a mainland importer who confirmed the tuna was sent from Indonesia.

We are a national law firm with extensive experience with Salmonella lawsuits. Our lawyers have been interviewed by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Lawyers USA and other publications. Attorneys Fred Pritzker and Rich Ruohonen have been named “Super Lawyers” by Law & Politics magazine. Fred Pritzker is also listed in The Best Lawyers in America. To contact a Salmonella lawyer at our firm, please call toll-free at 1-888-377-8900 or submit our free case consultation form.

Posted February 2008.

Listeria Recall: J and B Meats Bratwurst

2008-02-11T09:52:00.000-06:00

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is warning consumers not to eat smoked pork and beef bratwurst make by J&B Meats of Barnesville, Minnesota, with the lot number PBB30306, and Minnesota State Establishment Number 1198. The recalled J&B Meats bratwurst may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially-fatal foodborne pathogen. The contamination was found through routine testing.

J&B Meats sold the bratwurst at its retail store in Barnesville, about 20 miles southeast of Moorhead. J&B Meats is asking consumers to return any recalled bratwurst to the store. However, if someone has eaten any of the bratwurst, it should be kept in the freezer and labeled “Do not eat” for at least 70 days (Listeria incubation period) after the date it was consumed. If the person(s) who ate the recalled bratwurst are diagnosed with a Listeria infection (listeriosis), the recalled bratwurst may be evidence.

According to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, there are no reports of illnesses from the product. The sausages are often sold frozen, meaning people who do not hear of this recall could eat the bratwurst months from now.

If you or a family member is diagnosed with Listeria, contact us. We are Minnesota lawyers with extensive experience with Listeria cases. To contact a Minnesota Listeria attorney, please call toll-free at 1-888-377-8900 or submit our free case consultation form.

Posted February 2008.