A multi-state outbreak of salmonella enteritidis, a significant foodborne ailment, has been attributed to bean sprouts distributed by Wonton Foods, Inc. As of January 2015, no fewer than 115 individuals across 12 states have fallen ill. Symptoms of salmonella food poisoning involve diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and dehydration.
Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one developed symptoms of food poisoning after eating bean sprouts, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and our lawyers can help.
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What’s the Problem?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [1], the salmonella outbreak has sickened people in 12 states. To date, at least 25% of the victims have been hospitalized as a result of their illness, and none have died. The number of illnesses in each state is as follows: Connecticut (8), Maine (4), Maryland (6), Massachusetts (36), Montana (1), New Hampshire (6), New York (22), Ohio (3), Pennsylvania (18), Rhode Island (7), Vermont (3) and Virginia (1).
A collaborative investigation by local, state and federal health authorities have determined bean sprouts produced by Wonton Food, Inc. of Brooklyn, NY, to be the likely source of contamination. CDC has advised restaurants and retailers not to sell or serve bean sprouts from Wonton Foods, and consumers to avoid eating them. The firm has voluntarily agreed to stop production and sale of their bean sprouts until the investigation can be completed.
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Conditions for Growing Sprouts “Perfect for Bacteria”
The latest outbreak is one of three recently linked to raw sprouts. At least two listeria deaths and three illnesses were linked to mung bean sprouts in the Midwest this summer, and 19 E. coli illnesses were linked to the consumption of raw clover sprouts in May.
Raw sprouts are a common source of foodborne illness because of the moist, warm conditions in which they are grown. Since the mid-1990s, there have been over 30 outbreaks associated with raw and lightly cooked sprouts. Health officials have warned against eating raw sprouts in any situation, advising consumers to always cook them thoroughly and to avoid raw sprouts at restaurants.
“The conditions for growing sprouts are perfect for growing bacteria and that’s why they are so dangerous,” said Caroline Smith DeWaal, a food safety expert with the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Chlorine Dioxide Gas May Improve Sprout Sanitation: Study
Chlorine dioxide gas may be useful for killing Salmonella bacteria on sprouts, according to a new study conducted by scientists at Rutgers University and the Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS). Researchers found that the gas reduced the presence of Salmonella on sprouts by 99.999%, compared to a 99% reduction achieved with chlorine wash, the industry standard for decontamination.
Salmonella Food Poisoning (Salmonellosis)
Salmonella bacteria are a group of microscopic pathogens that are among the most frequently reported cause of foodborne illness in the U.S. The salmonella family includes nearly 2,500 stereotypes of bacteria, the most common of which are salmonella enteritidis and salmonella typhimurium. These strains account for about half of all human infection.
Salmonellosis causes an estimated 1.4 million cases of foodborne illness and more than 400 deaths annually in the U.S., according to the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Although in certain individuals salmonellosis may be asymptomatic, most people experience some or all of the following symptoms within eight to 72 hours after contaminated food is eaten:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Blood in the stool
FAQs
How Are Bean Sprouts Linked to Salmonella Poisoning?
Bean sprouts can harbor Salmonella due to the warm, moist conditions required for their growth, which are ideal for bacteria. Contaminated seeds or unsanitary growing practices can lead to Salmonella outbreaks.
How Can I Prevent Salmonella Poisoning From Bean Sprouts?
To prevent Salmonella poisoning, cook bean sprouts thoroughly before eating. Avoid consuming raw sprouts, especially if you have a weakened immune system, are pregnant, elderly, or young. Always follow proper food safety practices.
What Should I Do if I Suspect Salmonella Poisoning From Bean Sprouts?
If you suspect Salmonella poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and follow your healthcare provider’s advice. Report the illness to local health authorities to help track and manage outbreaks.
Do I Have a Bean Sprouts Food Poisoning Lawsuit?
The Food Poisoning Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Bean Sprouts Food Poisoning Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently investigating potential food-borne illness lawsuits in all 50 states.
Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you got food poisoning after eating sprouts, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a lawsuit and we can help.