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Romaine Lettuce Recall

Last Updated: 26 November, 2018

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising that U.S. consumers do not eat any romaine lettuce due to an E. coli outbreak tied to the lettuce. As of November 20, 2018, there have been 32 people infected with E. coli across 11 different states, including 13 who have been hospitalized. People in California, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Wisconsin have become ill as a result of consuming romaine lettuce. CDC and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are advising that consumers do not eat any romaine lettuce, and to discard of any romaine they may have in their possession. They currently have not identified a common grower, supplier, distributor, or brand of infected romaine, which is why it is important to not consume the product in any form, which includes: whole heads of romaine, hearts of romaine, and bags and boxes of pre-cut lettuce.

People of all ages are at risk of becoming infected with E. coli, according to the FDA. Children under 5, adults older than 65, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop an illness, however, any individual can become seriously ill. Symptoms of E. coli infection include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Typically, E. coli will last five to seven days, however, this strain of E. coli tends to cause more severe illness.  If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have consumed romaine lettuce recently, see a doctor immediately.

Foodborne Illnesses on the Rise

Unfortunately, foodborne illnesses have become more frequent across the United States. In fact, the CDC has investigated 21 multistate foodborne illness outbreaks this year, more than any other year in the past decade. As the number of foodborne illnesses rises in the U.S., consumers begin to question whether or not our safety measures are adequately protecting our food supply. As consumers, we assume that the food products we purchase are safe for consumption. The FDA has strict safety standards in regards to food products in order to keep consumers safe from outbreaks. However, sometimes these standards fail to protect consumers, resulting in illness outbreaks, such as this one. When a product is ineffectively inspected, the following types of hazards can occur:

  • Cyclospora
  • Salmonella
  • Parasites
  • Mold
  • Chemical and pesticide contamination

How Spiros Law P.C. Can Help

These hazards can cause severe, potentially life-threatening illnesses. When consumers are exposed to health risks, we have a right to take action in order to hold the responsible parties accountable. You should not have to bear the burden of medical bills and other problems related to a hazardous food product. By taking action, you can secure the compensation you need while also sending a message to the industry that proper screening measures are crucial in order to keep consumers safe from illness. If you or a loved one has become ill as a result of consuming romaine lettuce, the attorneys at Spiros Law P.C. are ready to fight for you. Contact us at (815) 929-9292 to further discuss your situation.