Salmonella Outbreak Affecting Hundreds of People Linked to Onions

 Posted on November 03, 2021 in Salmonella

There are multiple types of food products that may become contaminated, leading to food poisoning. While government organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) monitor food products in the United States for safety, there are many cases where foods that are contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses are sold to consumers. In one of the most recent food poisoning outbreaks, onions imported from Mexico have caused hundreds of people to become infected with salmonella.

Recalls of Onions and Related Products Due to Salmonella Contamination

Starting in September of 2021, the CDC identified an outbreak of infections of the Salmonella Oranienburg bacteria. This outbreak was linked to whole, fresh onions that were imported to the United States from Mexico. As of October 28, 2021, more than 800 infections have been reported in 37 states and Puerto Rico, and these infections have resulted in at least 137 hospitalizations. Illinois has been one of the most affected states, with 47 cases reported so far. Since the investigation is ongoing, and determining whether an illness is related to this outbreak may take multiple weeks, it is likely that many more people will be affected by this outbreak.

Because of this outbreak, multiple companies have performed recalls of onions and other food products. ProSource Produce, Keeler Family Farms, and Potandon Produce have recalled white, yellow, and red onions that were imported in July and August of 2021. These onions had been distributed to wholesalers, grocery stores, and restaurants, and they were available under brand names such as Big Bull, Sierra Madre, Rio Valley, Rio Blue, Peak Fresh Produce, and Green Giant. Meal kits produced by HelloFresh and EveryPlate have also been recalled.

Since the recalled onions have a shelf life of up to three months, they may still be present in many homes, grocery stores, or restaurants. Consumers are advised to throw away any recalled onions, and they should not buy or eat any onions that they do not know the source of. After disposing of onions that have been recalled or that may potentially be contaminated, any containers, utensils, or surfaces that came in contact with the onions should be washed with soap. Anyone who experiences symptoms of a salmonella infection, which include fever over 102 degrees, bloody diarrhea, excessive vomiting, and dehydration, should contact a healthcare provider and receive immediate treatment.

Contact Our Illinois Salmonella Food Poisoning Attorneys

If you have become ill after eating onions, you will want to determine your options for pursuing compensation from the food product manufacturer who was responsible. At Newland & Newland, LLP, we can investigate your case and gather evidence to establish liability for your injuries, and we will help you take legal action to recover financial compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Contact our Illinois foodborne illness lawyers at 312-981-0409 to set up a complimentary consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/more-than-3-dozen-illinois-residents-sickened-in-salmonella-outbreak-linked-to-onions/2647786/

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/oranienburg-09-21/index.html

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-oranienburg-whole-fresh-onions-october-2021