What You Can Do & How a Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Lawsuit Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Yellowfin Tuna salmonella injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by Yellowfin Tuna contaminated with salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Salmonella Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Outbreak

Moon Marine USA Corporation, a company located in Cupertino, CA, announced that it will be voluntarily recalling 58,828 pounds of frozen raw yellowfin tuna products. The products are labeled as “Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA.” The raw tuna product is backmeat, scraped off the bones of the tuna, and when packaged it looks like a ground fish product.

The outbreak, which has been causing food poisonings since January, has caused the following injuries:

• 116 confirmed cases of yellowfin tuna salmonella poisoning
• 12 hospitalizations
• No deaths

In a statement, the FDA warns that “the tuna may not be readily identifiable by retail outlets or by consumers as being from the implicated lots.” The raw yellowfin tuna product likely passed through several distributors before it got to a restaurant or a grocery store. These distributors often break down bulk products into smaller lots. Once the smaller lot reaches its end destination, there may be very little marking information identifying it as the “Nakaochi Scrape” product. Therefore, it is possible that there are still contaminated products in restaurants or grocery stores that are not identifiable as the recalled product.

The FDA is warning consumers to exercise caution, and when in doubt about whether food contains contaminated raw yellowfin tuna, do not consume the product. The following products may be contaminated:

• Spicy tuna rolls — many of the people sickened reported eating raw tuna in sushi sold as “spicy tuna”
• Sushi
• Sashimi
• Ceviche
• Other food products that might contain raw yellowfin tuna

The outbreak has been tied to Salmonella Bareilly, a rare strain of salmonella that was previously linked to a raw bean sprout salmonella outbreak.

States In the Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Outbreak

The following states are involved in the yellowfin tuna salmonella outbreak. The number after the state represents the number of people who have been sickened in that state:

• Alabama (2)
• Arkansas (1)
• Connecticut (5)
• District of Columbia (2)
• Florida (1)
• Georgia (5)
• Illinois (10)
• Louisiana (2)
• Maryland (11)
• Massachusetts (8)
• Mississippi (1)
• Missouri (2)
• New Jersey (7)
• New York (24)
• North Carolina (2)
• Pennsylvania (5)
• Rhode Island (5)
• South Carolina (3)
• Texas (3)
• Virginia (5)
• Wisconsin (12)

Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Poisoning

Yellowfin tuna salmonella poisoning typically occurs 12 to 72 hours after ingestion of the contaminated product. The first symptoms begin as nausea and abdominal cramps, followed by an urgent need to use the bathroom. Once diarrhea begins, symptoms intensify and typically include nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, headache, and a high fever. Vomiting combined with diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration. Healthy people normally recover from salmonella poisoning within 5-7 days, though normal bowel function may not return for several weeks or months.

In some cases, salmonella food poisoning can be deadly. The people at the highest risk of death are children, older Americans, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems. For these people, the salmonella infection may spread to the bloodstream and other parts of the body.

Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Lawsuit

If you were sickened by yellowfin tuna contaminated with salmonella, it is not your fault. It is the responsibility of food manufacturers to follow safe food guidelines and do their best to protect consumers from being sickened with potentially life-threatening salmonella food poisoning. If you decide to file a yellowfin tuna salmonella lawsuit, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income while you were recovering from your illness, and more. Contact us today for more information about your legal rights.

Do I have a Yellowfin Tuna Salmonella Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Yellowfin Tuna induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by Yellowfin Tuna contaminated with salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Yellowfin Tuna Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

What You Can Do & How a Sushi Salmonella Lawsuit Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Sushi Salmonella induced food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by sushi contaminated by salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Sushi Salmonella Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

UPDATE: April 2012 — YELLOWFIN TUNA SALMONELLA OUTBREAK

April 2012 — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced today that Moon Marine USA Corporation is voluntarily recalling nearly 59,000 pounds of frozen raw yellowfin tuna products that have been implicated in a 20-state yellowfin tuna salmonella outbreak that has sickened at least 116 people and caused 12 hospitalizations. In a Press Announcement, the FDA warned that the contaminated products are often used in spicy tuna rolls, sushi, ceviche, and other foods containing raw tuna. Furthermore, the contaminated lots may lack markings that identify them as contaminated products. This means that restaurants and grocery stores may be unaware that that have contaminated yellowfin tuna.

Overview of Sushi Salmonella

Every year, approximately 40,000 cases of food poisoning caused by salmonella are reported in the United States. Sushi is one of the most common culprits. Salmonella can be present in raw or undercooked foods, including fish. Sushi often contains raw fish. When a food handler touches fish contaminated with salmonella, he or she may spread the bacteria to all the food that he or she touches.

Fish do not normally carry the salmonella bacteria. Instead, raw fish becomes contaminated by salmonella bacteria due to improper food handling practices. Because the salmonella bacteria grows in fecal matter, raw fish that comes in contact with fecal matter and is then consumed can cause salmonella poisoning.

Sushi salmonella poisoning is common, because the raw fish in sushi is not cooked before it is served to patrons. Normally, cooking foods past a certain temperature will kill salmonella. However, sushi and many of the ingredients in sushi are not cooked. Even if the fish itself is not contaminated, other ingredients in the sushi may become contaminated when a food handler does not wash his or her hands, clean food preparation surfaces thoroughly, or washes food in water contaminated with salmonella. It is also possible for sushi salmonella infection to occur when flies land in fecal matter and then land on the food.

People who have the highest risk of a life-threatening salmonella poisoning include: children, older Americans, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems (such as those with cancer or HIV).

What is Salmonella?

The salmonella bacteria is responsible for tens of thousands of food poisoning cases in the United States every year. There are at least 40,000 cases of salmonella poisoning every year that are confirmed by a doctor, however, there may actually be more than 1.4 million cases of salmonella poisoning every year.

When a person is infected with salmonella, this is called salmonellosis. The salmonella bacteria is commonly found in the intestinal tract of animals and humans, and is present in fetal matter. When fecal matter comes in contact with food that is not cooked or handled properly, the food can become contaminated. When a person eats this food, they can contract salmonellosis.

Salmonellosis can occur when food handlers do not wash their hands after using the bathroom, when flies land in fecal matter and then on food products, when food is not cooked thoroughly, when kitchen surfaces are not disinfected, and many other ways.

Symptoms of Sushi Salmonella Food Poisoning

How do you know if your food poisoning is caused by salmonella? The only way to know for sure is to have a doctor test blood, stool, or leftover food that may have been contaminated. Food that has been contaminated by salmonella usually looks, tastes, and smells normal.

Symptoms of food poisoning are dramatic, painful, and severe. They usually begin within 8 to 72 hours after consuming the contaminated food. Initial symptoms are often stomach cramps, headache, and nausea, and a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. Once the diarrhea begins, it usually continues as sudden, repeated bouts of watery or bloody diarrhea. Vomiting and severe abdominal cramps are also common.

One of the biggest risks of salmonella poisoning is dehydration, because the person is unable to keep fluids in the body. Dehydration and other complications make salmonella poisoning life-threatening, especially for people who are vulnerable to begin with (children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems).

Symptoms of sushi salmonella food poisoning include:

• Repeated diarrhea, which may be bloody
• Abdominal cramps
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Nausea
• Irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract
• Headache
• Vomiting

Do I have a Sushi Salmonella Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Sushi Salmonella induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by sushi contaminated by Salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Sushi Salmonella Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

What You Can Do & How a Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella Lawsuit Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella induced food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by Spicy Tuna Rolls that were contaminated by Salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

UPDATE: April 2012 — YELLOWFIN TUNA SALMONELLA OUTBREAK

April 2012 — Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Press Announcement because Moon Marine USA Corporation will be voluntarily recalling almost 59,000 pounds of frozen raw yellowfin tuna. The FDA and the CDC traced a recent spicy tuna roll salmonella outbreak to Nakaoki Scrape yellowfin tuna products sold by the company. The contaminated fish has been linked to a 20-state salmonella outbreak, 116 illnesses, and 12 hospitalizations, but fortunately no deaths. The FDA previously warned that most people sickened reported eating spicy tuna rolls, however, other foods that contain raw yellowfin tuna may also cause salmonella poisoning (including sushi). The FDA also warned that the contaminated products likely passed through several distributors, which break down lots into smaller packages, which are then sold to restaurants and grocery stores without any marking information linking them to Moon Marine. Therefore, it is possible that there are still contaminated yellowfin sushi products in stores at this time.

Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella

Federal investigators are concerned about a salmonella outbreak that may be linked to spicy tuna rolls. No deaths have been reported yet, but there have been at least 100 cases of salmonella poisoning, including 10 hospitalizations. In a memo, the FDA called the tuna rolls “highly suspect.” The cases were reported between January 28 to April 2, 2012. The investigation is centering on six clusters of restaurants in Texas, Wisconsin, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Cases have been reported in 19 states, including: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C.

To read the CDC press release, click here.

FDA Investigation of Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella Outbreak

According to CNN, the news about the spicy tuna roll salmonella outbreak became public when an internal memo was accidentally sent to everyone at the FDA.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently working with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to determine the source of the outbreak. While they cannot conclusively determine that spicy tuna rolls are the cause of the outbreak, there is evidence that spicy tuna rolls may be the culprit.

During a salmonella outbreak, investigators conduct interviews with sick patients to determine what they have recently eaten, and where they were eating. The problem is that there is often lag-time between when the person got sick and when they report salmonella poisoning to officials. By that time, more and more people may become infected.

The FDA and the CDC have not yet conclusively identified any restaurant, supplier, or food product in the outbreak.

What is Salmonella?

LiveScience has reported that the patients who became ill were infected with an unusual strain of salmonella, known as salmonella Bareilly, which was previously found on contaminated bean sprouts.

Salmonella food poisoning is an infection of the intestinal tract. It occurs when a bacterium of the salmonella genus is eaten. There are about 12 varieties of salmonella bacterium that can cause illness. Salmonella grows in the intestines of birds, animals, and humans. Salmonella infection typically occurs when feces from humans or animals comes in contact with food products. Salmonella can live on fish, poultry, eggs, meat, water, and other foods. Infections can occur when food workers do not wash their hands after using the bathroom, when foods are washed in water contaminated with fecal matter, or when kitchen surfaces are not cleaned properly in a restaurant.

Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning

The most common initial symptoms of salmonella poisoning include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. These symptoms typically begin within 8-72 hours after eating food that has been contaminated with the bacteria. Most people with strong immune systems see a reduction of symptoms within a few days, and are completely recovered within a week. However, pregnant women, children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems (such as those undergoing cancer treatment), can quickly succumb to a life-threatening infection and die. Any time salmonella poisoning is suspected, this is a 911 emergency and you should seek immediate emergency care.

Salmonella poisoning symptoms may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Repeated diarrhea, which may be bloody
• Abdominal cramps
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Nausea
• Irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract
• Headache
• Vomiting

After salmonella poisoning, it can take several months before bowel function returns to normal.

Do I have a Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by Spicy Tuna Roll that was contaminated with Salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Spicy Tuna Roll Salmonella Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

The following Cobb salad product is being recalled:

• 7.5-ounce plastic containers labeled “Fresh Garden Highway Cobb Salad.” These products have a sell-by date through February 6, 2012. They also have an establishment number printed on the packaging: P-44056. The products were distributed in Texas.

GH Foods SW was notified by the company that supplies its eggs, Michael Foods Egg Products Co., that a product inspected by the FDA had tested positive for the Listeria bacteria.

Listeria can cause a serious, life-threatening disease known as listeriosis. Symptoms of listeriosis include severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, and nausea. Children and the elderly are most susceptible to fatality from this disease. Healthy adults rarely die from listeriosis. However, listeriosis can cause miscarriages and stillbirths in women who are pregnant when they contract the disease. People who are immuno-compromised (such as people with HIV or cancer) also have a higher risk of contracting listeriosis from food products.

The FDA recommends that people who are at risk of Listeria infection take preventative measures to reduce the chance that they will contract the disease.

• Listeria is most commonly found on raw meat, fish, and poultry products, such as eggs.
• After touching raw meat, fish, poultry, or eggs, wash hands for at least 20 seconds with warm, soapy water.
• Clean all utensils, cutting boards, and dishes and surfaces that have contacted raw meat. Promptly clean up spills.
• Do not allow cross-contaminating between raw meat, poultry, or eggs. Do not allow surfaces that have come in contact with these products to come in contact with other foods, such as vegetables. Keep cutting boards for raw meat separate from cutting boards for vegetables.
• The following foods have a higher risk of being contaminated with Listeria: Uncooked hot dogs, luncheon meats, bologna, deli meats, unpasteurized milk, store salads (ham salad, chicken salad, egg salad, seafood salad, etc.), soft cheeses, and more.
• Listeria can grow in the refrigerator, so eat foods promptly after opening them.

The Cobb salad is an American salad dish that commonly includes a colorful array of chilled foods: chicken breast, bacon bits, avocado, tomato, chives, cheese, and hard-boiled egg, all arranged over a bed of lettuce and drizzled with salad dressing.

Do I have a Food Contamination Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting food poisoning induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by contaminated food, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Food Contamination Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

What You Can Do & How an Energy Drink Lawsuit Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Energy Drink induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by an energy drink, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Energy Drink Litigation Group or call us toll-free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

UPDATE: Energy Drinks Linked to Cardiovascular Problems

A study published in the journal Pediatrics on February 13, 2012 finds that energy drinks have been linked to a wide array of serious adverse events in children. These include heart palpitations, high blood pressure, cardiac arrest, and death. The researchers find that energy drinks may pose higher risks to children who take medications or have chronic illnesses.

The authors of the study warn that energy drinks may adversely affect children with heart conditions, or mood disorders, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, high amounts of sugar in energy drinks could pose risks for people with diabetes.

Energy Drink Overview

The most popular energy drinks in America are Red Bull, 5-Hour Energy, Monster, Rockstar, and more. These products contain massive amounts of caffeine and other ingredients. The most common side effects are minor caffeine jitters, caused by over-stimulating the central nervous system with the stimulant effects of caffeine.

Many of these products are advertised as supplements to be taken before working out. Advertisements show hard-bodied men and women running, climbing mountains, mountain biking, and more. In addition, the website for 5-Hour Energy claims that the products can help with workouts and sports.

One of the biggest dangers of taking an energy drink is dehydration caused by drinking an energy drink without enough water, and then exercising intensely. Caffeine is a natural diuretic and can contribute to dehydration. Dehydration can also lead to heat exhaustion and hospitalization.

Furthermore, there is evidence that energy drinks can contribute to increased blood pressure, increase heart rate (tachycardia), heart disease, and other cardiovascular problems. These are most serious for people who already have heart problems. However, exercise itself causes higher blood pressure and heart rate. An energy drink that increases these even further.

Energy Shots

Energy shots include 5-Hour Energy, Red Bull, and more. The most popular is 5-Hour Energy, which holds more than 75% of the energy shot market. The active ingredients in these products varies, but is most often caffeine, B-vitamins, taurine (an amino acid from animal sources), artificial flavorings and sweeteners. Many advertise themselves as low-calorie ways to boost energy on the job, while working out, or while partying. Red Bull is one of the most popular mixers for alcohol.

These products are not required to put the amount of caffeine on their labels. The company responsible for 5-Hour Energy claims that it contains only about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, which could mean that it contains around 200-mg of caffeine, but no one really knows. Experts recommend limiting daily caffeine intake to 200 or 300-mg per day. The labels on 5-Hour Energy recommend limiting yourself to 2 bottles per day.

The biggest danger with energy shots are people who plays sports, exercise outdoors, or workout intensely. Many advertisements for 5-Hour Energy portray people doing extreme sports, working out at the gym, or going for a run in the mountains. The problem is that a stimulant product can increase a person’s heart-rate and blood pressure, and then exercise increases this even more. This can lead to serious cardiovascular problems in some people.

5-Hour Energy also contains 8,333% of your recommended daily allowance of Vitamin B12, and 2,000% the recommended amount of Vitamin B6. Each bottle also contains 100% of a person’s recommended amount of folic acid, making it highly likely that a person will consume too much folic acid. Studies have shown that too much folic acid can increase your risk of colon, lung, or prostate cancer. Folic acid is added to grains, breakfast cereals, and is also found in many foods, so it is very easy to accidentally consume too much of this substance when taking an energy shot. The liver can only metabolize so much, and the rest floats around the bloodstream until the liver is able to clear it out.

Non-Caffeinated Energy Drinks

Some people are concerned about consuming too much caffeine. The manufacturers of 5-Hour Energy have made a non-caffeinated version. Hydrive is another caffeine-free energy drink. The caffeine itself is probably not a health danger. The safety of caffeine is well-documented. The problem is with other substances added to the products (such as folic acid and massive doses of B-vitamins). Unfortunately, energy provided by B-vitamins is not a stimulating drug like caffeine. B-vitamins are necessary for extracting energy from food, and the body only needs a small amount to accomplish this task. Once the body has enough B-vitamins, the rest is not used by the body.

Coffee-Flavored Energy Drinks

Some energy drinks have “coffee” flavor. Coffee itself is a powerful stimulant drink, and is one of the most widely-used, additive-free, scientifically studied, natural energy drinks in existence. Coffee has been linked to lower risk of depression, Parkinson’s, and diabetes. Some canned energy drinks have tried to hop on the coffee bandwagon by including coffee flavorings. Java Monster is one example. The coffee on the label is not a concern. It is the other ingredients that can cause side effect — panax ginseng, for example, which has been linked to severe headaches and gastrointestinal problems.

Non-Liquid Energy

Not everyone wants to drink their caffeine. For these people, the makers of Rockstar and Amp have created chewing gum spiked with 40-mg doses of caffeine. One stick of gum is roughly equivalent to a cup of coffee. Eat a few sticks, and you’ve suddenly consumed as much caffeine in a pot of coffee. Combining caffeine and candy may also unintentionally appeal to children, who could be at risk of overdosing on caffeine if they eat an entire package.

Energy Drink Side Effects

Side effects of energy drinks may include:

• Caffeine Jitters
• Increased Blood Pressure
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Cardiovascular problems
• Dehydration, leading to heat exhaustion

Do I have an Energy Drink Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting energy drink induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by an energy drink side effect, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Energy Drink Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

Non-Caffeinated Energy Drinks: So you’re looking for an energy boost without the caffeine. You may decide to purchase a non-caffeinated version of 5-Hour Energy or Hydrive. By looking at the label, it may be hard to determine what you’re actually consuming. Caffeine-free products often contain B12 and B6 in massive amounts — several thousand times your recommended daily allowance (8,333% Vitamin B12, 2,000% Vitamin B6). They often also contain 100% of your recommended daily allowance of folic acid. If you take a multivitamin or eat foods fortified with folic acid (most grains and breakfast cereals in the United States), you may be getting way more folic acid than you need. Studies have shown that too much folic acid can increase your risk of colon, lung, or prostate cancer. Folic acid is one of the easiest vitamins to overdose, because the liver can only metabolize a limited amount. After the liver stops metabolizing folic acid, it circulates in the bloodstream.

Coffee-Flavored Energy Drinks: Coffee is one of the most commonly consumed energy drinks. On its own, coffee has actually been shown to have amazing health benefits — associated with a lower risk of depression, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease. Some energy drinks have tried to cash in on this, and you can buy coffee-flavored energy drinks like Java Monster. Even though the label may say “coffee,” beware other ingredients that may have significant side effects. Java Monster contains panax ginseng, an herbal ingredient linked to severe abdominal pain and headaches.

Energy Shots: These are the most popular energy drinks, including Red Bull and 5-Hour Energy, which are basically shots of caffeine. In 2011, people in the U.S. spent $1.3 billion on energy shots. What is the problem with energy shots? Are they dangerous? You’re probably familiar with “caffeine jitters,” a common side effect of these products, caused by over-stimulation of your central nervous system. Some studies have found that these drinks increase the risk of cardiovascular problems when taken in large amounts over long periods of time, but there are no conclusive reports. For most people, the biggest danger is probably dehydration, which can lead to heat exhaustion, and a visit to the emergency room. This happens when people consume an energy drink instead of water and then work out. This side effect may be quite common — the advertisements for 5-Hour Energy show hard-bodied athletes running up and down mountains in the wilderness after consuming the energy drink. The website advertises the products as ideal for workouts and sports, without recommending the additional consumption of water. Caffeine is a natural diuretic, which contributes to dehydration.

Non-Liquid Energy: Rockstar and Amp now come in a chewable gum with 40 milligrams of caffeine per stick, as well as artificial sweeteners and favorings or corn syrup. Each stick has the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. A person could very easily consume the caffeine in a pot of coffee while chewing the gum, or worse, overdose. Furthermore, unlike canned energy drinks, caffeine-spiked gum is easily available to children and pets, who might consumer massive amounts of caffeine accidentally.

Do I have an Energy Drink Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Energy Drink induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by energy drink side effects, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Energy Drink Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.

What You Can Do & How We Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting cantaloupe food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has experienced food poisoning as a result of eating cantaloupe, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

Cantaloupe Food Poisoning: An Overview

Since August 2011, there have been reports of approximately 25 cases of Listeria-related food poisoning in people who have consumed cantaloupe from the Rocky Ford region of Colorado. It is the first bacteria outbreak linked to cantaloupe in the United States.

Outbreaks of Listeria have been reported in 6 states — 11 cases in Colorado, 10 in New Mexico, 2 in Texas and one each in Indiana, Nebraska and Oklahoma. Additionally, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating suspected cases in several other states. Listeria-related illness has caused at least four deaths in Colorado and New Mexico.

The bacteria outbreak has prompted the state of New Mexico to voluntarily recall cantaloupe and independent grocery stores in Colorado have also pulled cantaloupe from their shelves. Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration has not formally recalled the melons, as it confirms the origins of the infection.

While Listeria rarely infects people, older adults, pregnant women, newborns and adults with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of infection.

The CDC is advising people to check melon labels or inquire at grocery stores if they believe they have purchased cantaloupe grown in the Rocky Ford region. The CDC is advising people at high risk not to eat the melons and is recommending that cantaloupes marketed as coming from the Rocky Ford region be thrown away in a sealed trash bag.

Rocky Ford is part of the Arkansas Valley in Colorado, along the Santa Fe Trail, 130 miles southeast of Denver. Rocky Ford melons are known for their high sugar content.

What is Listeria?

Listeria monocytogenes is a form of bacteria which can cause Listeriosis, a rare, but potentially lethal food-borne infection, caused by eating contaminated food. Usually it is contracted from eating deli meats, soft cheeses, hot dogs and dairy products that have been contaminated with the Listeria bacteria. Listeria may also be found in uncooked meats, uncooked vegetables, unpasteurized milk and some processed foods.

While pasteurization and cooking can usually kill Listeria monocytogenes, contamination may occur between cooking and packaging. Additionally, refrigeration may cause Listeria bacteria to grow and multiply in some foods.

Antibiotics can potentially cure Listeriosis, but even with treatment, some cases can result in death. According to the CDC, normally about 1,6000 people become ill with Listeriosis each year. Those most at risk include:

• Pregnant women
• Newborns
• Persons with weakened immune systems as a result of transplant or certain diseases, therapies or medications
• Persons with cancer, diabetes, alcoholism, and liver or kidney disease
• Persons with AIDS
• Older adults

Most healthy persons can consume Listeria-contaminated foods without becoming ill. However, in rare cases, persons without these risks can also contract infection.

Symptoms of a Listeriosis

Listeriosis infection can cause symptoms including:

• Fever
• Muscle ache
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions
• Other gastrointestinal symptoms

While a pregnant woman will only experience minor flu-like symptoms, it may be seriously harmful to her unborn child. Listeriosis infections during pregnancy can cause:

• Miscarriage
• Stillbirth
• Premature delivery
• Life-threatening infection of the newborn

Due to the severity of these symptoms, people who have contracted Listeriosis after eating cantaloupe may want to contact a lawyer or attorney with The Schmidt Firm, LLP to discuss the possibility of a food-poisoning lawsuit.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Warning

As of September 13, 2011, the CDC has confirmed 16 cases of Listeriosis in five states, all starting after August 15. The CDC has confirmed 11 cases in Colorado, 2 in Texas, and one each in Indiana, Nebraska and Oklahoma. Laboratory tests have traced the infections back to consumption of cantaloupe from the Rocky Ford region of Colorado.

As the CDC warning stated:

“CDC recommends that persons at high risk for Listeriosis, including older adults, persons with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women, do not eat cantaloupes marketed as coming from the Rocky Ford region of Colorado.”

The Food and Drug Administration has not yet recalled the melons as it works towards confirming the source. While most FDA recalls are voluntary, the FDA can authorize a recall as part of the Food Safety Modernization Act. For this to occur, the FDA must have some evidence there is a “reasonable probability that an article of food . . . will cause serious adverse health consequences or death to humans or animals.”

Do I Have a Cantaloupe Listeriosis Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting cantaloupe food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has experienced food poisoning as a result of eating cantaloupe, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

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What You Can Do & How We Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting food poisoning claims in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with food poisoning and suffered serious side effects, you should contact our firm immediately for a free case consultation. Please click here to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

More Food Poisoning Information

According to the Center for Disease Control, food poisoning and foodborne related illnesses cause about 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,200 deaths nationwide each year. Whether it is salmonella, E. coli, listeria or another type of food poisoning, the effects can be severe and even life-threatening.

Often, the source of the problem starts way before the food reaches a consumer. This has been the case with recent food recalls such as black pepper, beef, peanut butter, salami and so on. Other times, food is stored improperly, whether in a warehouse, grocery store or restaurant.

Recognizing the need for consumer education, the FDA recently released some tips to help consumers protect themselves while shopping for food.

• Check for cleanliness
• Is the store clean looking and smelling?
• Keep certain foods separated
Separate and raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other items in your cart. And put meats, poultry and seafood in plastic bags to prevent their juices from getting on other items.
• Inspect cans and jars
Don’t buy food in cans or jars that are bulging, dented, or cracked.
• Inspect frozen food packaging
Don’t buy frozen food if the package is damaged. Don’t buy food that shows signs of freezer burn.
• Select frozen foods and perishables, and then meat last
• Choose fresh eggs carefully
Make sure the eggs are refrigerated and that none of the eggs are cracked or broken.
• Be mindful of time and temperature
Refrigerate perishable products as soon as possible. Perishable foods should not be left at room temperature longer than 2 hours, 1 hour when temperatures are above 90° F.

Symptoms & Side Effects of Food Poisoning

Food Poisoning has been linked to the following side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps
• Reiter’s syndrome
• Vomiting
• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)

Do I Have a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting food poisoning claims in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with food poisoning and suffered serious side effects, you should contact our firm immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

What You Can Do & How We Can Help

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting romaine lettuce side effect claims in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with E. coli food poisoning after eating romaine lettuce, you should contact our firm immediately for a free case consultation. Please click here to contact our Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

More Romaine Lettuce Recall Information

Freshway Foods and Vaughan Foods have both recalled romaine lettuce due to E. coli contamination. The Freshway lettuce has a use by date of May 12 or earlier. Vaughan Foods recalled romaine lettuce with use by dates of May 9th and 10th. Both companies buy lettuce from Andrew Smith Company and it is believed that the lettuce originally came from the same farm. So far, there have been at least 29 reported cases of food poising traced to the romaine lettuce. Over half of the cases have been confirmed. The lettuce was distributed in several states, and cases have been confirmed in Michigan, New York, and Ohio. Some of the people who got sick have been diagnosed with HUS, a serious complication of E. coli food poisoning.

The Freshway lettuce was sold also sold under the Imperial Sysco brand name. The Freshway lettuce product was sold to distributors in Alabama, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The lettuce was also sold for use in in-store salad bars and delis for Kroger, Giant Eagle, Ingles Markets, and Marsh stores. The Vaughan lettuce was only sold to food distributors and restaurants.

Recalled Romaine Lettuce Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal Cramps
• Bloody Diarrhea
• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)

Do I Have Romaine Lettuce Lawsuit?

The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting romaine lettuce side effect claims in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with E. coli food poisoning after eating romaine lettuce, you should contact our firm immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.

March 1, 2010 –Heartland Foods, Inc. recalled all sizes/containers of COARSE GROUND BLACK PEPPER shipped from their facility at 6815 E. 34th Street, Indianapolis IN. Potential distribution took place on or after October 19th, 2009 to February 17th, 2010. The product involved includes the following sizes: 1 lb Quart (jar), 4 lb Gallon, 8 lb Bucket (new pail). Each container is identified with an individual label showing the Heartland Foods company logo, the description: Coarse Ground Black Pepper, and the specific Net Weight of the container (i.e., 1 lb, 4 lb, 8 lb).

March 5, 2010 – Mincing Overseas Spice Company recalled black pepper Lots 3258 and 3309.

March 09, 2010 – Frontier Natural Products Co-op, recalled several of its products manufactured with non-organic black pepper that were sold under the Frontier brand and under the Whole Foods Market brands. Recalled products were sold in all 50 states and in some parts of Canada to distributors, retailers and consumers.

March 12, 2010 – Tastefully Simple recalled select 1.1-ounce retail packages and 0.3-ounce samples of Toasted Garlic & Parmesan Cheese Ball Mix. This recall applies only to a small number of retail packages of Toasted Garlic & Parmesan Cheese Ball Mix (Item: 723200) and sample packets (Item: 723270) shipped since February 12, 2010. The following lot codes, which can be found on the bottom of the retail boxes, are involved in the recall: 9315, 9317 and 0004. The lot codes for the sample packets affected are: 9313, 9314 and 0005, which are embossed on the left front side of the packet.

March 16, 2010 – Dutch Valley Food Distributors, Inc. recalled for the following items: 5 Pound boxes of Seasoning Salt, item 808530, with a Mfg. date of 1/4/10 and 2/2/2010; 5 Pound boxes of Perfect Pepper Seasoning, item 808399, with a Mfg. date of 1/4/2010; Pound boxes of Perfect Pepper Dip Mix, item 278115, with a Mfg. date of 12/7/2009; 5 Pound boxes of Vegetable Dip Mix, item 278112, with a Mfg. date of 1/4/2010 and 2/2/2010; 5 Pound boxes of Southwest Dip Mix, item 278109, with a Mfg. date of 2/2/2010; 50 Pound boxes of Medium Black Pepper, item 808464 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 20 Pound boxes of Coarse Black Pepper, item 808465 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 25 Pound boxes of Fine Black Pepper, item 808466 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 50 Pound boxes of Fine Black Pepper, item 808467 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 25 Pound boxes of Whole Black Peppercorns, item 808468 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 20 Pound boxes of Medium Black Pepper, item 808469 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X); 5 Pound pails of Whole Black Peppercorns, item 808470 with a lot number of 3309 (B, F, G, K, P and T) and 3258 (B, D, G, L, P, Q, R, T and X)

March 17, 2010 – C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. recalled Sunbird Seasonings, Williams Wings Seasonings and Williams Gumbo Soup lines.

March 17, 2010 –Spice Barn recalled: Malabar Peppercorns Lot MTC-3258 in 1 and 5 Pound Bags Distributed between: 1/26/10 to 2/8/10, Ground Black Pepper Lot MO-3258T in 1 and 5 Pound Bags Distributed between:12/08/09 to 2/8/10.

March 18, 2010 – Bass Pro Shops® recalled one lot of Uncle Buck’s® Beer Batter Mix Lightly-Seasoned.

March 19, 2010 – John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc recalled various snack mix and cashew products, which have been flavored with seasoning containing the recalled black pepper.

March 19, 2010 – McCain Foods USA recalled the McCain All American Roaster frozen potato product, 24 oz bags, UPC 10072714037334, Production date November 25, 2009

March 22, 2010 – C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. recalled a number of products. The products are: Bayou Heat Spicy Wings Seasoning, Shop’n Save Chicken Roasting Bag & Seasoning Blend, Carlita Fajita Seasoning Mix, La Tiara Taco Seasoning, Shurfine Pork Gravy, Shurfine Season ‘n Bake for Chicken-with bag, Western Family Pork Gravy Mix
Western Family Season ‘n Bake for Chicken with bag, HY-TOP Pork Gravy Mix, HY-TOP Fajita Seasoning Mix, HY-TOP Cooking Bag & Seasoning Blend for Chicken, HY-TOP Marinade Southwest-Flavor for Meat or Chicken, IGA Bag’n Bake – Cooking Bag and Seasoning Mix Chicken, Parade Fajita Seasoning Mix, Parade Pork Gravy Mix
Weis Chicken Season ‘n Bake – Roasting Bag and Seasoning, H-E-B Beef Stew Seasoning Mix, H-E-B Meat Loaf Seasoning Mix, H-E-B Sloppy Joe Mix

March 23, 2010 – Blue Line Foodservice Distribution recalled Little Caesars Spice Paks. The Spice Paks are small white packets, approximately 1.5” X 2.5” that contain black pepper and other spices. Before they were removed from the stores, they were available upon request to consumers at many Little Caesars stores in the US, Canada and Mexico.

March 23, 2010 – C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. recalled additional products Best Yet Season ‘n Bake Chicken, Food Club Beef Stew, Tops Pork Gravy, Piggly Wiggly Season ‘n Bake Chicken

March 25, 2010 – Perfect Candy & Packaging Co recalled the following product with an H.D.W. Foods Inc. label: Whole Black Peppercorns, 2.0 oz Bags UPC# 080869654293