Colorado Food Poisoning

A Colorado-based melon farm issued a recall last week after its cantaloupes tested positive for listeria, a deadly bacteria. The contaminated cantaloupes have been linked to at least two deaths and 22 illnesses in Colorado and New Mexico. State authorities believe that this number could increase in more states pending test results.

In light of news of another bacterial outbreak linked to produce, it is no surprise that about 76 million Americans suffer from food poisoning each year. Food contamination can occur at any stage of food production. For this reason, farms, processors, food handlers and restaurants have a duty to adequately manage food products with care and to ensure that their products are safe for consumption.

Improper food handling can cause dangerous bacteria, viruses and parasites to form within food products, which can lead to serious injury or even death after consumption. Common side-effects of food poisoning include an upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and dehydration. Side effects can range from minor to severe. Tragically, each year, food poisoning is linked to the death of about 5,000 Americans.

If you believe that you or a loved one suffered an injury as a result of food poisoning, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your legal rights. A negligence claim can be used to recover medical expenses, lost wages and compensation for pain and suffering. For questions, contact Broussard, David & Moroux at 1-888-337-2323 (toll free) or 337-233-2323 (local).