Understanding the Dangers of Allergic Reactions and Legal Options for Affected Consumers
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a significant recall involving a range of snacks sold nationwide due to undeclared allergens, particularly milk and sesame, which were not listed on the packaging. This recall, initiated by Bliss Tree, an Indian snack manufacturer, and overseen by Sri Lakshmi Narasimhar Overseas of New Jersey, affects products sold in several states, including California, New Jersey, Georgia, Arizona, and Maryland, as well as online through platforms like Amazon. The recall comes after the FDA reviewed product labels and discovered the omission of these allergens, categorizing the situation as Class II. This classification indicates that while the probability of serious health consequences is low, temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects are possible.
The snacks in question, such as Bliss Tree’s “Ragi Butter Murukku” and “Millet Butter Karasev,” were produced with potential traces of milk and sesame, which were not declared on the packaging. This is particularly concerning for individuals who are allergic to these ingredients, as exposure to allergens can lead to dangerous reactions, including anaphylaxis—a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. The recall affects various snack sizes, with products carrying a “Best By” date of May 2025 or earlier.
According to the FDA, the presence of undeclared milk and sesame was discovered during a routine review of product labels. An investigation revealed that a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging process led to the failure in listing these allergens. As a result, the production and distribution of the affected snacks have been suspended until the FDA confirms that the issue has been resolved.
How Undeclared Allergens Harm Consumers
The presence of undeclared allergens in food products poses a significant health risk to individuals with food allergies. For those allergic to milk or sesame, even a small amount of exposure can trigger severe allergic reactions, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that can lead to difficulty breathing, a sharp drop in blood pressure, and even death if not treated promptly. The speed with which anaphylaxis can develop makes it especially dangerous, as victims often require immediate medical attention, including the use of epinephrine to counteract the reaction.
For people with known food allergies, careful reading of product labels is a critical part of daily life. They rely on accurate labeling to ensure their safety, as accidental ingestion of allergens can lead to emergency room visits or hospitalization. In this case, the failure of Bliss Tree to list milk and sesame on their snack packaging exposes consumers to unnecessary risk. The danger is not limited to the allergic person alone; family members and caregivers who may unknowingly serve these snacks to those with allergies could inadvertently put their loved ones in harm’s way.
This type of harm is not just physical—it is emotional and financial as well. Families of allergy sufferers often experience ongoing stress about the safety of the food products they purchase, and an allergic reaction can result in costly medical bills, lost time from work, and long-term health complications. For individuals with severe allergies, the knowledge that a product was mislabeled may lead to a loss of trust in food manufacturers, further complicating their already challenging dietary restrictions.
When a product fails to disclose the presence of allergens, consumers have the right to take legal action against the responsible companies. Undeclared allergens are a serious product safety issue, and victims harmed by such negligence may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, emotional distress, and other damages.
Filing a Lawsuit for Undeclared Allergens
Consumers harmed by mislabeled food products can file a product liability lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries. In cases where undeclared allergens lead to serious allergic reactions, these lawsuits typically claim that the manufacturer failed to ensure the product’s safety or did not provide adequate warnings about the presence of allergens. In this instance, Bliss Tree’s failure to list milk and sesame on the packaging could be grounds for legal action if consumers suffered harm as a result.
The process of filing a product liability lawsuit begins with consulting an attorney who is familiar with food safety laws and product recalls. An attorney will review the facts of the case, including the nature of the allergic reaction, the product’s labeling, and the steps the manufacturer took—or failed to take—to prevent harm. The attorney will also gather evidence, such as medical records, proof of purchase, and statements from medical professionals, to support the claim that the undeclared allergens directly caused the injury.
Once the evidence is collected, the lawsuit can be filed, and the legal process begins. This often involves discovery, where both parties exchange information about the case, and depositions, where key witnesses, including medical experts and company representatives, may be interviewed under oath. During this time, the manufacturer may attempt to negotiate a settlement to avoid going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
Victims of food product mislabeling should understand that legal representation is essential in these cases. Manufacturers have substantial resources to defend against claims, and without a skilled attorney, consumers may struggle to secure the compensation they deserve. An experienced product liability lawyer will advocate on behalf of the injured party, ensuring that their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Damages You Can Recover in a Product Liability Lawsuit
In a product liability case involving undeclared allergens, victims may be entitled to several types of compensation. Medical expenses are typically the most immediate concern, as treating an allergic reaction, especially anaphylaxis, can be costly. Hospitalization, emergency care, medications, and follow-up appointments can add up quickly. Additionally, victims may seek compensation for lost wages if their reaction prevented them from working.
Another form of compensation available in these cases is pain and suffering. Allergic reactions can be traumatic, especially for those who experience severe symptoms or require emergency intervention. The emotional distress caused by the fear and anxiety of a life-threatening situation is a valid part of the damages claim. If a family member died due to an allergic reaction, their loved ones might also pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and compensation for the emotional toll of losing a family member.
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