Indiana Product Liability Lawsuits Following a Food Recall

Recently, a national outlet published a report that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued recalls for bagged salads. The bagged salad mixes contained a microscopic parasite linked to an outbreak of intestinal illnesses in many Midwestern states. As a precaution to consumers, some retailers voluntarily recalled the mixes in Indiana. The agencies are also advising Indiana consumers to throw out their salad mixes if they are unsure of its origins. Individuals who suffer adverse effects after eating potentially harmful food items should contact an Indiana product liability attorney to discuss their rights and remedies.

Many consumers began getting sick from May to mid-June. The affected consumers ranged from 16 years old to 92 years old. The CDC explained that the microscopic parasite often contaminates water and food resulting in Cyclosporiasis. This intestinal infection typically causes diarrhea, cramping, and fatigue. Although these conditions may be treated with antibiotics, medically fragile individuals may suffer severe and long-term consequences, including hospitalization and death.

Microbiologists explain that they are not positive what causes these outbreaks, but it is likely related to the quality of the water used to farm the produce. In many cases, the water is contaminated with fecal matter. However, regardless of what caused the parasite, there is a clear indication that there was a breakdown in quality-control. In these situations, Indiana injury victims should hold all liable parties responsible for their injuries and resulting damages.

Food companies often issue a recall after a product causes an outbreak of an illness. The most common illnesses are related to E. coli, hepatitis A, listeria, salmonella, or cyclosporine. These companies should engage in measures to issue an effective recall. This includes contacting retailers and private consumers. However, issuing a recall is not enough to absolve them from liability.
On the other hand, a recall does not automatically impute liability on a food company. Injury victims must be able to prove that they suffered damages because of the recalled food item. This includes presenting evidence of personal injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Product liability cases are often complicated, and it is essential that injury victims or their families contact an Indiana product liability attorney to discuss their situation.

Have You Suffered Injuries Because of a Defective Product?

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries because of a defective product, contact Padove Law to discuss your rights. Attorney Burton A. Padove has a long and successful history of representing Indiana injury victims in their claims for damages. He possesses the tools, resources, and skills necessary to address and overcome the unique challenges these cases present. In addition to Indiana product liability claims, Attorney Padove also represents clients in other claims stemming from car accidents, truck accidents, workplace injuries, and slip and falls. Because we work on a contingency fee model, we will not recover any fees unless your case is successful. Contact Padove Law at 219-836-2200 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury case.