California Company Recalls 37,318 Pounds of Peppers Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

July 26th, 2010

A California company is recalling 37,318 lbs. of pepper products that were distributed between March 15th of this year and May 6th.  Miravalle Foods, Inc. recalled their Miravalle Chile California and Miravalle Chile Nuevo Mexico brands of peppers due to possible salmonella food poisoning contamination.  These peppers were distributed to customers in CA, CO, UT, NC, NE, ID, OR and NV.

These products were distributed to only a small group of customers through distributors, retail stores and direct delivery, and include the following:

3oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-00301 & 7 12810-00304)
6 oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-60001 & 7 1280-60004)
8oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-00802 & 7 12810-00803)
16 oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-16005 & 7 12810-16007)

The products are packaged in clear plastic under the “Miravalle Chile California & Miravalle Chile Nuevo Mexico” Brand names and in bulk 25lb. boxes.

A random sample of the products revealed the presence of salmonella following lab analysis conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration.   Miravalle Foods, Inc. is located in El Monte, California.  Consumers who have purchased any of the products involved in this recall are asked to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.  Questions or concerns can be directed to the company at 1-626-575-7551 between the hours of 8 am and 4 pm PST Monday through Friday.

While salmonella food poisoning usually produces only mild symptoms, in some cases it can be fatal.  Symptoms include abdominal pain and fever, diarrhea, and vomiting.  Those most at risk for serious complications include children, those with a compromised immune system and the elderly.  If you have eaten any of the above products and become ill, see your doctor at once.

Those who become seriously ill after consuming foods contaminated with salmonella may have legal rights.  To discuss your situation and learn if you may be entitled to compensation for medical or other costs related to your illness, contact a New York food poisoning attorney.

Brown Chiari is a team of experienced Buffalo personal injury attorneys representing victims rights in personal injury cases.  Brown Chiari specializes in nursing home abuse, food poisoning and construction accidents.

Glencoe, IL Country Club Salmonella Illnesses Continue to Rise

July 19th, 2010

Recently, 37 individuals who had eaten at the Skokie Country Club in Glencoe Illinois were confirmed to have salmonellosis, and 8 of those individuals were hospitalized.  Now it appears that 2 of the eight remain hospitalized, and officials believe that the outbreak may affect as many as 80 or more people.

While 37 cases were initially linked to the Country Club, 50 others had reported symptoms of salmonella infection, and those have been under investigation.  The kitchen at Skokie Country Club closed voluntarily until the investigation can be completed.  Those who consumed food or drinks at the club between June 12 and 24 are urged to contact Cook County Health Department if experiencing the symptoms of salmonella food poisoning, which include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.

This particular strain of salmonella, enteritidis, is commonly associated with undercooked eggs.  Some restaurants “pool” eggs, which means that crack numerous eggs and hold a dozen or more in a bucket or large bowl until ready to use, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

While the source of the salmonella contamination has yet to be determined, it looks as though improper food handling procedures may be to blame.

Those who work in food preparation areas such as that at the Skokie Country Club should take careful precautions to ensure that foods are being handled in a safe manner, and that hands are washed frequently and food preparation surfaces are kept clean and disinfected.

If you develop symptoms of salmonella food poisoning, call your doctor at once, especially if you are at higher risk of developing serious complications.  Those most at risk include the elderly, young children, and individuals with a weakened immune system.

Brown Chiari is a team of personal injury attorneys in Buffalo NY, experienced in food poisoning cases throughout the north east.

ConAgra Foods Recalls Marie Callender’s Cheesy Chicken and Rice Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

July 6th, 2010

A Council Bluffs, IA company, ConAgra Foods Packaged Foods LLC, has recalled all Marie Callender’s brand Cheesy Chicken and Rice frozen meals that have been distributed across the nation due to possible salmonella food poisoning contamination.

All of these products are being recalled regardless of production date, after the CDC informed ConAgra about an investigation that involved 29 individuals across 14 states who were diagnosed with salmonella chester, 8 of these people reporting specifically eating the Cheesy Chicken and Rice.  The first report of illness occurred in April, and the last was reported on May 22.

While the specific source of the outbreak has not yet been determined, the FSIS became aware of the problem due to an investigation that is ongoing in multiple states of the salmonella serotype chester illnesses.  The FDA, Centers for Disease Control, FSIS and state health departments along with agriculture departments are all involved in this continuing investigation.  The public will be informed when further information regarding this outbreak is available.

The product being recalled is the 13-ounce packages of Marie Callender’s Cheesy Chicken & Rice White Meat Chicken and Broccoli over Rice Topped with Rich Cheddar Sauce, with a label containing establishment number “P-45″ inside the USDA mark of inspection.

These products were distributed across the nation, but as of this moment a distribution list is not available by the FSIS.  Consumers who have purchased the Marie Callender’s product are urged to dispose of it, and any questions should be directed to ConAgra Foods at 1-866-484-9610.

Salmonella food poisoning is usually accompanied by diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting, and lasts just a short time.  However, individuals such as the very young or elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at risk of developing more serious complications.  See your doctor if you develop symptoms of salmonella infection.

If you or a family member have become ill after eating foods purchased at the supermarket or prepared in a dining establishment, contact a competent New York food poisoning attorney to determine if you may be eligible for compensation of expenses related to your illness.

Brown Chiari are experienced Buffalo personal injury attorneys helping individuals with food poisoning and nursing home abuse cases.

Illinois Subway Salmonella Illnesses Climb to 71

June 29th, 2010

As of June 10th, the number of confirmed salmonella Hvittingfos cases related to Subway stores in Illinois has risen to 71.  The individuals who have become ill range in age from 2 years old to 88, and this infection has spread across 22 counties so far, including Bureau, Cass, Champaign, Christian, Coles, Dewitt, Fulton, Knox, La Salle, Macon, Marshall, Moultrie, Ogle, Peoria, Sangamon, Schuyler, Shelby, Tazewell, Vermilion, Warren, Winnebago, and Will.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, this type of salmonella only accounts for one to two illnesses each year normally.  So far, no identification has been made as to what specific food source is responsible for the outbreak.  The Illinois Department of Public health continues to work to identify the source of the illness, and is combining efforts with local health departments, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Following the outbreak, Subway restaurants voluntarily removed all green peppers, lettuce, red onions and tomatoes that were in the stores and replaced these items with fresh produce.

Recently, there have been several outbreaks of salmonella traced to eating foods purchased at restaurants.  Often, these outbreaks occur due to contamination of foods by food workers or service staff who are ill, and cross-contamination.  Additionally, foods such as meat, produce and eggs may be contaminated before they reach the restaurant.  Investigators from environmental health agencies and public health departments occasionally cannot determine the source of the salmonella food poisoning, so the cause of an outbreak may remain a mystery.

Common symptoms of salmonella food poisoning include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.  Healthy individuals usually experience only mild symptoms that last for a short time, however those at risk may develop serious complications.  These individuals include the elderly, young children and those with a weakened immune system.

Anyone who develops symptoms of salmonella food poisoning should seek medical attention. Following your treatment, make sure you contact a Salmonella attorney to assist you with your legal needs to recover damages and medical expenses.

Salmonella Risk Reason for Recall of Organicgirl Baby Spinach

June 8th, 2010

Salinas, California based Organicgirl Produce has announced a recall of the 10 oz. organicgirl Baby Spinach due to the possibility of salmonella contamination.  So far, no illnesses have been reported in relation with this product.

The Baby Spinach in question has an expiration date of May 22, with a product code 11A061167.  It was reportedly distributed and sold in six states including Alabama, Arizona, California, North Carolina, Oregon and Wisconsin.  This makes two recalls announced relating to leafy green produce this week, after Fresh Express announced its recall of romaine-based salads that are also possibly tainted with salmonella.

A third-party laboratory for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration performed random sample testing and found that a package of organicgirl Baby Spinach tested positive for salmonella.  This recall is being announced out of caution and concern for consumers.

This recall includes 336 cases of the 10 oz. package size of organicgirl Baby Spinach with a use-by date of May 22.  As of now, no other products are salads are included in this latest recall.

organicgirl Produce is conducting a thorough internal investigation, and is also working in conjunction with state and federal regulators to determine the source of the contamination.  The company conducted a traceability analysis at once, along with an appraisal of its food safety documentation.  All were found in compliance, and the raw product testing records for the time period relating to this incident did not reveal the presence of any pathogens.

Retailers are asked to check store shelves to ensure that none of the possibly contaminated produce is present.  Consumers in the six states listed above are urged to make certain that they have none of the product with the use-by date and product code in question in their homes.  Do not consume the product, and discard it if it is present in your home.  Consumers with concerns or questions are asked to call the consumer hotline at 831-758-7810 any time between 8 and 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, Monday through Friday.

Individuals who experience symptoms of salmonella food poisoning should seek medical attention, especially those at increased risks of serious complications including the frail or elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of salmonella include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting and occasional fever.  These are usually short-lived in healthy individuals.

Salmonella Contamination Subject of Recall by Chiquita Brands Subsidiary Fresh Express

June 8th, 2010

Fresh Express, a subsidiary of Chiquita Brands, is recalling fresh Express romaine-based ready-to-eat bagged salads due to possible contamination with salmonella.  Recently a random test was conducted by the FDA in which salmonella food poisoning was detected in a single package of Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine Salad.  No other Fresh Express salads are currently included in this recall.

The products affected are marked with expired use-by dates of May 13th through May 16th and have an “S” in the product code.  These dates have passed, but the FDA warns that consumers who may have the product in their refrigerator check the dates before using, to make certain they do not eat foods that may possibly be contaminated.  These products could possibly remain on the store shelves, so Fresh Express extended this recall to retailers as well.

The Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine Salad in question were sold in many states, including Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Idaho, Utah, Missouri, Montana, Kansas, Washington and Wyoming, Oregon, Texas and New Mexico.

While the recall has been issued after detecting salmonella in only a single package of the salad, Fresh Express is being highly cautious in order to prevent possible food poisoning.  Consumers who have purchased this product and have it in their homes are asked to dispose of the salad, and contact consumer representatives of Fresh Express at 800-242-5472, 24 hours a day during week days for a full refund.

Salmonella produces only mild symptoms in healthy individuals, including diarrhea, stomach cramps and nausea.  Some individuals, such as young children, the elderly, and those with a compromised immune system may experience serious complications.  If you suspect salmonella food poisoning, seek medical treatment.

Recent Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts

June 8th, 2010

California-based Caldwell Fresh Foods has voluntarily recalled alfalfa sprouts after 20 people across 10 states became ill. These alfalfa sprouts were manufactured under the Caldwell Fresh Foods brand, as well as Nature’s Choice and California Exotics brands.  So far, no deaths have been reported but 4 of the individuals sickened have required hospitalization.

A wide variety of restaurants and retailers across the nation purchased the alfalfa sprouts from Caldwell Fresh Foods, including Cardenas Markets, Gonzalez Northgate Markets, Canton Foods, Wal-Mart Stores, Kings Super Market and Trader Joe’s.  The alfalfa sprouts being recalled are packaged and labeled as follows:

California Exotics brands – 5 oz. plastic clamshell containers

Caldwell Fresh Foods – 4 oz. plastic cups and one pound plastic bags; 2 and 5 pound plastic bags packed in cardboard boxes with a “Caldwell Fresh Foods” sticker affixed on the box

Nature’s Choice – 4 oz. plastic cups

The U.S. FDA , Centers for Disease Control and state authorities are investigating the outbreak, and Caldwell Fresh Foods is cooperating as well.  According to the company, alfalfa sprouts not affected by the salmonella recall will have bright, round green stickers affixed to labels and lids.

According to Maurie Thomas, general manager at the Maywood-based Caldwell Fresh Foods, alfalfa sprouts are strictly controlled by the FDA, and the company follows all guidelines set forth by the FDA to a T.  Thomas stated that state and federal health officials visited the company and took samples of finished products as well as swabs from equipment used at the facility to test for traces of salmonella.

Consumers are urged to throw away any sprouts in question, or to return them to the place of purchase for a refund.  So far, 11 people from California have become ill along with one Oregon infant.

While the majority of illnesses related to salmonella food poisoning are short in duration and cause only mild symptoms, some individuals are at risk of serious complications.  These include young children, those with a compromised immune system, and the frail or elderly.  Common symptoms include nausea, fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting.  It is suggested that you see a doctor if you develop these symptoms after eating foods that are possibly tainted.

You may be eligible for reimbursement of expenses associated with salmonella food poisoning.  Contact a reputable New York food poisoning attorney to learn more about your rights and what action you may take.  Learn more about Brown Chiari; personal injury attorneys in Lancaster NY.

Salmonella Suspected in Durham NC Foodborne Illness Outbreak

May 20th, 2010

A popular restaurant in Durham, NC seems to be the site where several illnesses have originated from in recent days.  Bullock’s Barbecue is where several people ate food before later developing symptoms of food poisoning.  This well-known restaurant is the common thread between 15 people who became ill after eating at the restaurant.  County inspectors suspect Salmonella food poisoning may be to blame, but are waiting for their suspicions to be confirmed through lab work.

Investigations have been performed related to proper disposal and clean-up of potentially affected food items and equipment used to prepare foods, but thus far it has not been determined any particular food source responsible for the outbreak.  Durham County Health Director Gayle Harris stated that they have visited the restaurant and looked the production process over from beginning to end, and have no problem with the way the restaurant operates.  The kitchen area was where health inspectors began their investigation.

Harris also said that they would be talking with employees of the restaurant in order to determine if any of those who work at Bullock’s have been sick.  Health officials say that Tommy Bullock, owner of the restaurant, has been fully cooperative with officials in trying to determine how the pathogen may have spread.

Long-time devoted customers such as Merle Minor have a hard time believing that Bullock’s could have been the source of food poisoning.  Minor stated that he believes it is a fallacy that anyone says they got food poisoning at the restaurant, and that he doesn’t believe it happened there.

Harris said that samples of food and other items being tested will hopefully shed light on the source of the outbreak.  These samples are being tested in the state lab.  While loyal customers continue to vouch for the quality and reputation of the restaurant, Bullock says he fears the reports of illness will tarnish the reputation of Bullock’s.

Individuals who develop symptoms of gastroenteritis should see their doctor to make certain the illness is nothing serious or life-threatening.  Symptoms of salmonella food poisoning include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and vomiting.  These symptoms are mild and last only a few days in most individuals, but those at higher salmonella injury risk could develop serious complications.  Elderly people, young children and those with compromised immune systems should seek medical attention if these symptoms develop.

If you are in need of a Salmonella food poisoning attorney, consider contacting the experienced and knowledgeable personal injury attorneys in New York at Brown Chiari!

Routine Inspection Conducted by New York Department of Agriculture Leads to Recall of Ground Black Pepper

May 11th, 2010

Recently, the State of New York Department of Agriculture conducted a routine inspection at MY-A & Co. of Cheverly, MD in which it was found that 3.5 oz. jars of ground black pepper had Salmonella present.  There are no product codes present on the jars, which were distributed to retail stores in 11 states including Georgia, Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, New York, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Ohio, Texas and Virginia.

Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported in relation to this product to date, and consumers who have purchased this product are asked to return the product to the store where they purchased it for a full refund.

The full name on this product is Ground Black Pepper Double Golden Fish, which is sold in plastic jars.  Consumers who have questions are asked to call Jessica Moynihan at (301) 322-1237.

So far, officials do not believe that this contamination is related to other black and red pepper recalls linked to a nationwide outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo food poisoning.

Healthy people who become infected with Salmonella usually experience only mild symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, which may be bloody.  In rare instances, such as in people at higher risk of developing complications, the organism may get in to the bloodstream which could produce a more serious illness.  Arterial infections like infected aneurysms, arthritis or endocarditis may result.  Individuals most at risk for developing complications include young children, the elderly and those with a weakened immune system.

If you have become ill after consuming foods that are possibly tainted with Salmonella, consult your doctor, especially if you belong to any group at a high risk of serious complications.

You may be eligible for compensation of costs associated with your illness.  Contact a reputable New York food poisoning or personal injury attorney to discuss any rights or monetary compensation you may be entitled to.

FDA Believes Salmonella Tainted Food Additive May Be Present in Over 10,000 Products

May 11th, 2010

One of the largest food recalls in U.S. history could be imminent in the next few weeks, as it’s becoming apparent that thousands of products may contain an additive linked to salmonella food poisoning contamination.  HVP, or hydrolyzed vegetable protein, has been found to contain salmonella bacteria in one lot of the flavor enhancer produced by Basic Food Flavors.  It has also been detected inside the company’s Nevada manufacturing facility according to the FDA.

It’s very difficult for federal officials to determine the true scope of the problem, because this contamination is believed to date back as far as September of 2009.  This means that millions of pounds of HVP that could be potentially contaminated was shipped to various food manufacturers over five months before the company recalled the food enhancer.

According to officials, the health threat facing the public is relatively low due to the fact that most products containing HVP are cooked during processing or are to be cooked by the consumer before eating.  The highest danger lies in ready-to-eat products such as snack foods and chips.

FDA officials have notified foodmakers that it is not necessary to recall their products if they can provide documentation proving that the foods containing HVP were heated appropriately.

Don Schaffner, a professor of microbiology and food-safety expert at Rutgers University, said that officials are trying to determine how to go about protecting public health without being so over-cautious that tons of products that may be perfectly safe are not thrown out unnecessarily.

Officials at the FDA are still trying to determine what caused the contamination originally, and declined to comment recently on when the Nevada plant was last inspected or if they have a history of problems concerning sanitation.

The contaminated HVP affects a huge variety of foods including frozen dinners, salad dressings, chips, soups, hot dogs and thousands of other processed foods.

Salmonella food poisoning is generally mild in most individuals, but can pose serious health complications in those most at risk, including young children, the elderly and people with a compromised immune system.  If you believe you have consumed foods tainted with salmonella and are showing salmonella symptoms, contact your doctor at once to see if you need treatment.

If you find yourself in need of a food poisoning attorney, consider contacting Brown Chiari.   Brown Chiari is a personal injury law firm in New York with over 20 years of experience in the legal field.