Black Beans Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Black Beans Lawsuit Overview

Multiple recalls of S&W Brand Organic Black Beans, O Organic Brand Black Beans, and O Organic Brand Chili Beans have occurred due to compromised hermetic seals that could lead to botulism poisoning.

These products, distributed by Faribault Foods, Inc., have been subject to FDA warnings and multiple recalls in recent years.

The contamination affects numerous lots sold across multiple states, putting consumers at significant risk for serious foodborne illness.

Latest Black Beans Lawsuit Updates

• August 3, 2023 – For the second time in less than a month, Faribault Foods, Inc. recalls S&W Brand Organic Black Beans, O Organic Brand Black Beans and O Organic Brand Chili Beans due to compromised hermetic seal, potentially exposing consumers to botulism risk [1].
  
• July 12, 2023 – Initial recall announcement covering specific lot numbers of S&W Organic Black Beans, O Organic Black Beans, and O Organic Chili Beans manufactured between February 2021 and April 2021.
  
• June 28, 2023 – FDA issues public health alert regarding the risk of botulism from affected black bean products with compromised seals.
  
• May 15, 2023 – First reports of illness potentially linked to contaminated black beans emerge in multiple western states.
  
• April 20, 2023 – Laboratory testing confirms the presence of Clostridium botulinum in sample products from the affected lots.
  

Black Beans Recall Statistics

• Over 15,000 cases of potentially affected beans have been recalled nationwide
• Distribution reached 39 states including Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, Arkansas, Illinois, Texas, Georgia and others
• An estimated 180,000 individual cans have been included in the combined recalls
• Approximately 65% of affected products were the O Organic Black Beans (15 oz)
• Twenty-seven confirmed illnesses have been reported with potential links to the contaminated products

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA MAUDE database reports:

• 38 adverse event reports related to potentially contaminated black beans
• 15 cases required hospitalization for botulism symptoms
• 4 severe cases required intensive care treatment
• No confirmed fatalities to date directly attributed to the contamination

The FDA has classified this as a Class I recall, indicating “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

Black Beans Contamination Injuries & Side Effects

Consumption of black beans with compromised seals may expose consumers to Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which produces the dangerous botulinum toxin.

Serious side effects include:

• Botulism Poisoning: Potentially life-threatening paralytic illness causing difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, and possible respiratory failure
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Neurological Complications: Double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing
• Respiratory Issues: Breathing difficulties that may require ventilation support
• Long-term Health Effects: Possible extended recovery period and lingering neurological symptoms

Do You Qualify for a Black Beans Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Black Beans lawsuit if:

• You purchased and consumed S&W Brand Organic Black Beans, O Organic Brand Black Beans, or O Organic Brand Chili Beans between February 2021 and April 2023
• The product was from one of the affected lot numbers included in the recalls
• You experienced symptoms consistent with foodborne illness or botulism after consumption
• You sought medical treatment for your symptoms
• You can provide documentation of product purchase and medical treatment

Evidence Required for a Black Beans Lawsuit

Successful claims typically require:

• Medical records documenting diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
• Proof of purchase (receipts, credit card statements, store loyalty program records)
• Product packaging or lot numbers (when available)
• Timeline documentation connecting product consumption to illness onset
• Medical expenses and documentation of lost wages

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of contaminated black beans may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages against the manufacturer if gross negligence can be proven

Black Beans Recall Information

For the second time in less than a month, Faribault Foods, Inc. is recalling S&W Brand Organic Black Beans, O Organic Brand Black Beans and O Organic Brand Chili Beans due to compromised hermetic seal.

According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), this recall affects [2]:

S&W Organic Black Beans, 15 oz.

• Lot Numbers Best By Apr 29, 2025 (1292 OYSW)
• Lot Numbers Best By Jun 13, 2023 (1066 OYSW)
• Distribution Dates: February 2022-April 2023

O Organic Black Beans, 15 oz.

• Lot Numbers Best By Apr 29, 2023 (1292 OYSW)
• Lot Numbers Best By Feb 03, 2023 (1026 QHB 2)
• Distribution Dates: February 2021-April 2021

O Organic Chili Beans, 15 oz.

• Lot Numbers Best By Feb 03, 2023 (1026 QHB 2)
• Distribution Dates: February 2021-April 2021

The affected products were distributed in retail stores nationwide. Consumers are urged to check their pantry shelves and dispose of any potentially affected products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

Statute of Limitations for Black Beans Lawsuits

The time limit to file a lawsuit varies by state:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from date of injury or discovery of injury
• Some states permit up to 4 years for product liability claims
• Cases involving minors often have extended deadlines
• Some states allow the statute to begin only after a recall is announced

It’s critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible, as failure to file within the appropriate timeframe can permanently bar your right to compensation.

Related articles:

• Whole Foods Red Lentils Recall Suit
• Hippie Organics French Beans Litigation
• Randall Beans Clostridium Lawsuit
• Good Seed Soybean Mung Bean Sprouts Listeria Lawsuit

See the other food poisoning claims we’ve taken on.

FAQs

1. What Is Botulism and Why Is It Dangerous in Contaminated Black Beans?

Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. In black beans with compromised seals, these bacteria can multiply and produce toxins. Botulism attacks the body’s nerves and can cause difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death if not treated promptly.

2. How Do I Know If My Black Beans Were Part of the Recall?

Check the lot numbers and “Best By” dates on your product against the recall information. S&W Organic Black Beans with lot numbers Best By Apr 29, 2025 (1292 OYSW) and Jun 13, 2023 (1066 OYSW), and O Organic products with similar lot numbers were affected. You can also check the FDA website or contact the manufacturer directly.

3. What Compensation Can I Receive From a Black Beans Lawsuit?

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. The exact amount varies based on factors including severity of illness, duration of symptoms, long-term health effects, and economic losses resulting from your illness.

4. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Black Beans Contamination Case?

Most food contamination cases settle within 8-14 months, though complex cases involving severe illness or multiple affected individuals may take longer. Cases that proceed to trial rather than settlement can extend to 18-24 months or more.

5. Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit for Black Beans Contamination?

Yes, class action lawsuits are being formed for victims of the contaminated black beans. These allow multiple affected individuals to combine their claims against the manufacturer. Individual lawsuits may also be appropriate for those with severe cases or unique circumstances.

6. What Should I Do If I Think I Consumed Contaminated Black Beans?

If you experience symptoms like double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or muscle weakness after consuming potentially contaminated beans, seek immediate medical attention. Save the product packaging, receipt if available, and document when you consumed the product and when symptoms began.

7. Who Is Liable for Injuries Caused by Contaminated Black Beans?

Potentially liable parties include the manufacturer (Faribault Foods), distributors, retailers who sold the product, and quality control companies. Liability is typically established through evidence of negligence in manufacturing, testing, distribution, or warning consumers about potential risks.

8. Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Black Beans Lawsuit?

While not required, working with an experienced food safety attorney significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. These cases involve complex product liability and negligence laws, and manufacturers typically have robust legal teams defending their interests.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by contaminated black beans. Most states have statutes of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of harm, and this time can pass quickly while you’re dealing with health issues.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
• Experienced attorneys specializing in food contamination cases

Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve for your suffering and expenses related to contaminated black beans.

Start Your Free Case Review Now

References:

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/faribault-foods-inc-announces-extension-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-sw-brand-organic-black
2. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/faribault-foods-inc-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-sw-brand-organic-black-beans-and-o