Nationwide Food Poisoning Lawsuit Information | Get the Right Lawyer

Millions of Americans suffer from food poisoning on a regular basis. Unfortunately in some instances this results in death. A person may contract food poisoning, sometimes also referred to as foodborne illness, when they consume contaminated food or beverages that have been improperly handled.

A pathogen infection can cause anything from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to severe dehydration and even bloody diarrhea. It may be appropriate to treat food poisoning at home depending on the symptoms and the severity of the infection.

However, an individual may die as a result of foodborne illness in some cases if food poisoning is severe enough to cause internal organ damage.

Types and Causes of Food Poisoning

Food can be contaminated at any point of production, including growing, harvesting, processing, storing, shipping or preparing. It is often caused by cross-contamination, which is the transfer of harmful organisms from one surface to another. This is especially problematic for foods that are still raw, such as salads and other produce. Because these foods are uncooked, they become susceptible to food poisoning since the harmful organisms are not destroyed before consumption. Food poisoning can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The list below gives some examples of possible contaminants, symptoms you might experience and the way in which the organism spreads.

Campylobacter

Meat and poultry. Contamination happens during processing if animal feces comes into contact with meat surfaces. Other sources include unpasteurized milk and contaminated water.

Clostridium Botulinum (Botulism)

Foods that are canned at home with low acidity, commercial foods that are improperly canned, smoked or salted fish, potatoes baked in aluminum foil, and other foods that are kept at warm temperatures for long periods.
Learn more about Botulism

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Beef contaminated with feces during the slaughter process. Mainly spread by undercooked ground beef. Other sources include unpasteurized milk and apple cider, alfalfa sprouts, and contaminated water.
Learn more about E. coli

Hepatitis A

Raw, ready-to-eat produce and shellfish from contaminated water. An infected food handler may be responsible for the spread.
Learn more about Hepatitis A

Listeria

Hot dogs, luncheon meats, unpasteurized milk and cheeses, and unwashed raw produce. May be spread through soil and water that is contaminated.
Learn more about Listeria

Norovirus

Raw, ready-to-eat produce and shellfish from contaminated water. An infected food handler may be responsible for the spread.
Learn more about Norovirus

Salmonella

Raw or contaminated meat, poultry, milk, or egg yolks. The bacteria survives inadequate cooking. Spread may occur by knives, cutting surfaces or an infected food handler.
Learn more about Salmonella

Shigella

Seafood and raw, ready-to-eat produce. An infected food handler may be responsible for the spread.

Vibrio

Raw oysters and raw or undercooked mussels, clams, and whole scallops. Can be spread through contaminated seawater.

When should I see a doctor for food poisoning?

While most cases of food poisoning tend to be mild, there are however some instances where food poisoning can become deadly and should be treated with the utmost urgency. It should be noted that the information below does not constitute legal or medical advice. If you have any doubts as to whether or not your medical situation calls for immediate help, it’s best to seek medical attention, poison control or 911.

According to the National Institutes of Health, you should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms of food poisoning:

• You are experiencing diarrhea and if nausea/vomiting are preventing you from drinking fluids
• You are taking a diuretic and are experiencing conditions such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• You experience long-term diarrhea (2-3 days).
• You have bloody stool.
• Your temperature is over 101° F

Call 9-1-1 if:

• You exhibit signs of dehydration (feeling thirsty, lightheaded, or like you are going to faint)
• You experience excessive bleeding or your stools are black or maroon in color.
• You develop problems with breathing, such as a shortness of breath.
• You feel a pounding, racing, or skipping sensation in your heart.
• You believe you developed poisoning from fish, mushrooms or botulism.
• You experience symptoms connecting to the nervous system. This includes symptoms such as weakness, problems speaking, paralysis, or seeing double.
• You are having difficulty swallowing.

If you feel that your food poisoning will ultimately result in a financial burden (missed time at work, medication costs, medical equipment costs), it may be a good idea to see a doctor. The documentation of your doctor’s visit may serve as evidence that could prove the legitimacy of your claim in court.

Can I file a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

You may be eligible to compensation by filing a food poisoning lawsuit. If you have been poisoned by a food product, you might be able to sue that company. It depends on the particulars of your situation whether or not you have a valid claim for personal injury.