Chicago, IL (12/13/2024) – Between November 27 and December 10, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced 11 food recalls linked to cucumbers contaminated with salmonella. This contamination led to an outbreak of salmonellosis affecting 68 individuals across 19 states, with 18 hospitalizations reported. The origin of the contamination was traced to American cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico, which were distributed in the U.S. beginning October 12. This recall serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with foodborne illnesses and the legal avenues available for those affected.
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If you or a loved one became ill after consuming any of the products affected by the cucumber recall, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the product liability lawyers at Ankin law in Chicago to learn more about the legal options available to you.
What Is Salmonella, and Why Is It Dangerous?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause illness in humans. Most people infected with salmonella develop symptoms such as:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Vomiting
Symptoms typically appear within 12 to 72 hours of consuming contaminated food and usually resolve within a week. However, certain groups, including young children, elderly adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of severe complications or even death. In these cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines, requiring hospitalization and intensive treatment.
Timeline of the Recall
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the recalled list of products and companies involved continues to increase. Consumers should review the timeline below and monitor the FDA website and news sources for updated information.
November 27: SunFed Produce LLC Recall
SunFed Produce LLC issued a recall of whole cucumbers of various sizes grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. This was the initial step in a cascading series of recalls as the scope of contamination became evident.
November 29: Baloian Farms Recall
Baloian Farms of Arizona Co. recalled their whole fresh cucumbers sold under the brand names PamPak and Pamela. These cucumbers were also sourced from the implicated grower in Mexico.
December 1: Russ Davis Wholesale Recall
Russ Davis Wholesale recalled salads and wraps containing cucumbers under brand names Crazy Fresh, Quick & Easy, and Kowalski’s Markets. These products had used cucumbers supplied by Baloian Farms.
December 3: Walmart Recall
Walmart announced a recall of sliced cucumbers sold in 34 Texas stores. These cucumbers were supplied by SunFed Produce LLC.
December 4: Kroger and Associated Recalls
Multiple companies issued recalls of cucumber products sold in Kroger stores:
- JFE Franchising, Inc. recalled salads and vegetable bowls sold under brand names Snowfruit and Snowfox.
- Supreme Service Solutions LLC recalled cucumber snack cups, salads, and vegetable trays sold in Kroger and King Soopers locations in Texas and Colorado.
- Yummi Sushi recalled sushi products containing cucumbers in Texas Kroger stores.
December 5: Hardie’s Fresh Foods Recall
Hardie’s Fresh Foods announced a recall of cucumbers supplied by SunFed, distributed to Costco stores in Texas through Dairyland Produce LLC.
December 6: F&S Fresh Foods and Fresh Creative Foods Recalls
- F&S Fresh Foods recalled Mediterranean Inspired Party Trays sold in Ralph’s and Smith’s stores in western states.
- Fresh Creative Foods issued a nationwide recall of beef and lamb gyro sandwich meal kits distributed to Sam’s Club locations, as tzatziki sauces in these kits contained contaminated cucumbers.
December 9: Reser’s Fine Foods Recall
Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc. announced a recall of Sprouts Farmers Market family gyro kits, which also used cucumbers in their tzatziki sauce.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you have purchased any of the recalled products, the FDA advises the following actions:
- Discard or Return Products: Dispose of recalled items or return them to the store for a full refund.
- Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces, cutting boards, or utensils that may have come into contact with the contaminated cucumbers.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for signs of salmonellosis, especially if someone in your household belongs to a high-risk group.
Legal Recourse for Affected Individuals
If you or a loved one became ill after consuming contaminated cucumbers, you may be entitled to compensation through a product liability claim. Product liability law holds manufacturers, distributors, and retailers responsible for ensuring the safety of their products. Your lawyer will consider the following when determining whether you have a product liability case.
Establishing Liability
To pursue a claim, you must demonstrate:
- The product was contaminated: Evidence of salmonella in the cucumbers.
- Causation: Proof that the contaminated cucumbers caused your illness.
- Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, and other losses resulting from the illness.
Victims of foodborne illnesses can seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income
- Long-term health complications
Preventive Measures to Avoid Foodborne Illness
While the FDA and food companies work to maintain a safe food supply, consumers can take additional steps to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses:
- Wash produce thoroughly under running water before consumption.
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw produce separate from raw meats and other potentially contaminated items.
- Cook food to safe temperatures to kill harmful bacteria.
- Stay informed by monitoring FDA recall announcements and removing affected products from your home.
How the Injury Lawyers at Ankin Law Can Help
Ankin Law has over 100 years of combined experience handling product liability cases, including those involving foodborne illnesses. Our attorneys understand the complexities of navigating the legal system and can guide you through the process of pursuing a claim. Here’s what we can do for you:
- Investigate the Source: We will work to identify the origin of the contamination and hold the responsible parties accountable.
- Document Your Case: From medical records to receipts, we ensure all evidence is meticulously gathered.
- Negotiate or Litigate: Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom advocacy, we fight for maximum compensation.
The Importance of Food Safety
The recent cucumber recall underscores the importance of vigilance in food safety practices. As the FDA stated, recalls are a sign that the system is working to identify and address potential hazards. However, the impact on consumers affected by contaminated food is significant, often involving physical, emotional, and financial burdens.
Contact Ankin Law Today
If you’ve been impacted by the recent cucumber salmonella outbreak or another foodborne illness, Ankin Law is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.
