The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has taken a significant step by recalling more than 11,000 pounds of ready-to-eat charcuterie meat products from Busseto Foods due to an outbreak of salmonella that has affected at least 24 individuals across 14 states. This recall comes as a response to reports of illnesses, with five people requiring hospitalization after consuming the implicated products.
The CDC’s food safety alert, issued on a Friday, has raised concerns about the safety of these charcuterie meat items. The agency reported that salmonella was detected in an unopened sample of “Busseto Foods Charcuterie Sampler Prosciutto, Sweet Soppressata, and Dry Coppa.” The discovery of salmonella was made by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as part of the ongoing CDC investigation. Further testing is being conducted to confirm if the salmonella strain identified is indeed the outbreak strain responsible for the illnesses.
The majority of reported cases of illness originated in Ohio, where 11 people fell ill after consuming the contaminated products. Thirteen other states, including Texas, New York, Connecticut, Illinois, and Michigan, had at least one reported case of illness. However, the actual number of affected individuals may be higher than reported, as not everyone who became ill may have reported their symptoms.
Symptoms of salmonella infection can include a fever exceeding 102°F, diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and signs of dehydration, such as dizziness upon standing, dry mouth, and a dry throat. These symptoms typically manifest six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria, and most individuals recover without medical treatment within four to seven days.
Seeking Legal Recourse for Victims
Individuals who have suffered harm or injury due to the consumption of contaminated charcuterie meat products may have grounds to pursue legal action to seek compensation for their damages. In cases involving foodborne illnesses, victims may consider filing a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or distributor responsible for the tainted products.
The Lawsuit Process and the Role of an Attorney:
Initiating a product liability lawsuit involves several critical steps, each of which emphasizes the importance of legal representation:
- Consultation: Victims should consult a qualified product liability attorney who can assess the strength of their case, provide guidance on their legal rights, and help determine the best course of action.
- Investigation: Attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence establishing liability and the extent of the victim’s injuries. This may involve obtaining medical records, conducting product testing, and consulting with experts.
- Filing a Complaint: Attorneys draft and file a formal complaint against the responsible parties, outlining the basis of the lawsuit.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange information and evidence during the discovery phase, which includes depositions, interrogatories, and document requests.
- Negotiation: Attorneys engage in settlement negotiations with the defendant’s legal team to seek a fair and just settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.
- Trial: In the event of a trial, attorneys represent the victim’s interests, present evidence, and argue the case in court.
- Judgment and Damages: If successful, the victim may be awarded damages to compensate for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other losses stemming from their injuries.
Potential Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit
In a product liability lawsuit related to injuries caused by contaminated food products, victims may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for all past and future medical bills associated with the injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages to account for physical and emotional distress.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the injuries and recovery process.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact the injuries have on personal relationships.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Individuals who have suffered injuries due to consuming contaminated food products should seek legal counsel to protect their rights and pursue rightful compensation. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP offers a free consultation to victims of product-related injuries. To discuss your case and explore your legal options, call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today. Time limitations may apply to potential lawsuits, so taking prompt action is crucial. Ensuring your health and well-being while seeking legal assistance is a vital step towards holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide personal injury law firm is ready to assist you.
.svg){kind=small}
.avif)
.avif)