Multiple Food Companies Announce Voluntary Recalls of Contaminated Products

A number of recent food recalls have recently made headlines, putting consumers across the country at risk of suffering serious injuries or contracting a foodborne illness. First, popular pre-washed salad and leafy green provider Fresh Express has recalled 350 cases of its baby spinach products after almond pieces were located in the production supply. Although the almond would not pose any harm to many consumers, it creates a serious threat for those who suffer from an allergy to tree nuts, who can experience life-threatening symptoms or even death if they consume tree nuts.

Currently, Fresh Express has indicated that it is working with its distributors to remove packages of potentially contaminated products, which bear the product code G010A17A, and packages distributed throughout the Eastern and Southeastern states pose the greatest risk to consumers. It has also indicated that it is launching an internal investigation to determine how the piece of almond wound up in the production chain.

Heritage International (USA) has initiated a voluntary recall concerning its Raw Cashew Pieces product, stating that certain products may contain Salmonella. Covering only one lot of production, the packages contain 16 ounces of nuts in a clear plastic bag and are labeled with a barcode including the number 00505154 and a statement reading “BEST BEFORE 07.17.2016TF4.” The company sells this product at Trader Joe’s grocery stores, a national retailer focusing on the natural foods segment.

Salmonella is an incredibly dangerous foodborne illness that manifests in a variety of ways, including severe fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some instances, the bacteria can travel into the victim’s bloodstream, creating even more complications like arthritis, infections in the arteries, and endocarditis. Although no cases of illness associated with the cashew pieces have been reported, consumers should still be cautious. Heritage launched the recall after an FDA-contracted lab reported that a randomized test of the cashew product tested positive for Salmonella.

Finally, BlendTech, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of its Uncle Buck’s Fish Batter Mix product, due to the presence of a milk ingredient that is not listed on the product’s label. Individuals who suffer from milk-related allergies face serious risks should they consume the product, including allergic reactions. The product is distributed through Bass Pro Shop locations across the country, as well as via mail order. The 22-ounce product bears the lot number 09241505 and is labeled with UPC 9222972528. The company states that it has not received any reports of illnesses so far, and asks consumers to discard the affected products. Moll Law Group recommends that consumers NEVER discard possibly contaminated product as this is evidence that may be necessary to pursue a claim.

If you or someone you know has suffered injuries as the result of a foodborne illness, you may be entitled to compensation. The last thing any of us expect to experience after consuming a meal is to become seriously ill or face life-threatening conditions. At Moll Law Group, we have handled numerous food contamination cases and have the experience and skills it takes to obtain a settlement or a verdict in your favor. We proudly represent clients across the country, including in New York, Texas, California, and Illinois. Call us at 312-462-1700 or contact us online to set up your free consultation.

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