Listeria in Packaged Salads Kills Two

 Posted on February 14, 2022 in Food Poisoning

A popular producer of pre-packaged salads is under intense scrutiny, as an outbreak of listeria has been linked to two deaths. According to reports, an outbreak of listeria was traced to packaged salads produced by Dole, and the outbreak has now been linked to at least two deaths.

Outbreak Is One of Two Under Investigation

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some 17 cases of foodborne illness that have led to at least 13 hospitalizations were traced to Dole-produced products. These include garden salads, mixed greens, Caesar salad kits, and other kinds of salads sold in clamshells or bags.

The affected products were recalled beginning in late December, and they were sold under a number of brand names, including:

• Dole

• Kroger

• Ahold

• Little Salad Bar

• HEB

• Naturally Better

• Marketside

• Simply Nature

• Nature’s Promise

• President’s Choice

The CDC reports that the outbreak affected consumers in at least 13 states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan, and Ohio.

This listeria outbreak is just one of two that the CDC is currently investigating. The other outbreak was linked to packaged salads produced by Fresh Express under brand names that include Fresh Express, Marketside, Bowl & Basket, Wellsley Farms Organic, O Organics, Giant Eagle, Little Salad Bar, Weis Fresh from the Field, Simply Nature, and Signature Farms. At least ten illnesses and hospitalizations were reported, as well as one death. The second outbreak was found to include at least eight states.

The Dangers of Listeria

Listeriosis, or listeria infection, is caused by consuming food contaminated with the Listeria monocytogenes bacterium. Raw foods are the most common source of listeria contamination, including unpasteurized milk and raw vegetables. Each year in the United States, around 1,600 individuals become ill due to listeriosis, and around 260 people die as a result. Those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly and pregnant women, are at the highest risk for infection.

The most difficult part of tracing a listeria outbreak is the fact that while symptoms sometimes present quickly, the first indicators of infection can take up to 30 days or more to show up. Common symptoms include nausea, fever, diarrhea, chills, and muscle aches. A spreading infection could be indicated by headaches, a stiff neck, dizziness, confusion, and convulsions.

Call an Illinois Food Poisoning Attorney

If you or a loved one became ill after consuming food that you think might have been contaminated with listeria, a Chicago foodborne illness lawyer can help you understand your options for taking action. Contact Newland & Newland, LLP today to discuss your case in a free consultation. Call 312-981-0409 for an appointment.

Sources:

https://www.everydayhealth.com/listeria/outbreak-traced-to-packaged-salads-results-in-deaths/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/listeria-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20355269