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Alabama Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuits Lawyer

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Collen Clark Published by Collen Clark

A legal challenge against Boar’s Head has been initiated. The lawsuit claims the company’s negligence in maintaining listeria-free products led directly to the outbreak. It highlights alleged lapses in sanitary practices at their manufacturing facilities, which purportedly contributed to the contamination.

This comprehensive article delves into the outbreak specifics, current legal proceedings, and the process for claim submission. Continue reading to understand how you can pursue compensation if you’ve been affected.

For Alabama residents impacted by the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak, Schmidt & Clark, LLP stands ready to assist. Our firm boasts an impressive history of advocating for plaintiffs, with our primary goal being to secure the justice and recompense you rightfully deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by providing you with our extensive expertise in food safety legislation to guide victims through this complex process.

Our experienced team can assist you by:

  • Conducting thorough assessments of claims, encompassing both financial and non-financial damages.

  • Providing complimentary initial consultations to deliver expert legal guidance without any upfront costs.

  • Assisting clients in comprehending the applicable statutes of limitations and fostering transparent communication throughout the legal journey.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak: Latest Updates

The Boar’s Head listeria outbreak, initially reported on May 29, 2024, has swiftly intensified. As of August 28, 2024, 57 cases have been documented across 18 states, with Alabama being affected [1]. 

The Associated Press has highlighted several Alabama residents who have initiated legal action against Boar’s Head in response to the listeria outbreak.

Federal health authorities pinpointed the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes after analyzing a liverwurst sample obtained from Boar’s Head provisions in Alabama.

This revelation prompted an extensive recall of over 3,200 tons of Boar’s Head deli products manufactured between May 10 and July 29, 2024. The positive listeria test results in Boar’s Head liverwurst led to a product recall spanning multiple states, including Alabama.

The recall encompasses over 65 packaged items distributed nationwide, significantly impacting Alabama consumers. The Boar’s Head Deli meat recall has resulted in severe health repercussions, including fatalities and hospitalizations within the state.

Boar’s Head’s Violations of Food Safety Regulations

The listeria outbreak has been traced to severe food safety violations at a Boar’s Head facility supplying products to Alabama. Records indicate the plant breached federal regulations 69 times annually, with issues including mold, insect infestations, and blood contamination on the floor [2].

Despite receiving warnings, Boar’s Head failed to address these issues adequately, resulting in persistent sanitation problems. The presence of condensation, which facilitated listeria growth, led to suspended inspections and the initiation of a class action lawsuit involving Alabama residents.

The outbreak has been linked to at least seven fatalities and approximately 40 hospitalizations across 15 states, with Alabama included in this tally.

Also Read: Delaware Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit

Which Boar’s Head Products Are Recalled in Alabama?

Boar’s Head products that are recalled in Alabama are liverwurst, bologna, and roast beef produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024, bearing sell-by dates ranging from July 25, 2024, to August 30, 2024 [3].

The health hazards associated with these contaminated Boar’s Head products are considerable, having led to numerous illnesses and deaths across several states, including Alabama.

Alabama consumers are advised to inspect products for USDA inspection marks ‘EST. 12612’ or ‘P-12612’ on labels. This includes both prepackaged deli items and those sliced at retail delis sourced from the facility supplying Alabama.

Given the health safety concerns, the recall also extends to ready-to-eat meat and poultry products marketed under the Boar’s Head brand in Alabama.

What is Listeria Monocytogenes?

Listeria monocytogenes is a hardy bacterium that can survive on surfaces and in ready-to-eat meat products. It is a frequent culprit in food poisoning outbreaks [4].

This pathogen proliferates rapidly among equipment, surfaces, food, and hands and can thrive in soil, water, and animal feces. Notably, refrigeration does not eliminate listeria bacteria in contaminated meats, making it a persistent threat to food safety in Alabama.

The Alabama Department of Public Health monitors the illness, reports on deaths and hospitalizations, and urges consumers to verify if they have any recalled products. Severe cases of listeriosis typically require antibiotic treatment.

Listeria Symptoms

Listeria infection symptoms can vary widely and may manifest as soon as the same day one consumes contaminated food or up to 70 days later.

Common symptoms include:

  • Elevated body temperature

  • Muscular discomfort

  • Digestive system issues

More severe cases may lead to:

  • Intense headaches

  • Neck rigidity

  • Mental confusion

  • Loss of equilibrium

  • Seizures

For expectant mothers, while the infection may present with mild symptoms, it can lead to severe complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth.

“Thirty-four people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from 13 states. Thirty-three people have been hospitalized and two deaths have been reported, one from Illinois and one from New Jersey.”- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Who Can File a Boar’s Head Meat Lawsuit in Alabama?

Any individual in Alabama who consumed recalled Boar’s Head deli meats and subsequently suffered a severe illness can file a Boar’s Head Meat Lawsuit in Alabama. This includes those who required hospitalization due to listeriosis and families of victims who did not survive in Alabama.

Swift action is crucial, as Alabama’s statute of limitations imposes specific timeframes for filing claims, sometimes as brief as two years.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Alabama 

In Alabama, settlement amounts for listeria lawsuits vary, influenced by factors such as illness severity and associated damages. Generally, cases involving hospitalization or long-term health impacts tend to receive higher compensation.

Alabama victims may seek compensation for economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. In cases where a loved one has died due to listeria complications, families in the state may file wrongful death claims.

Legal claims can also cover emotional distress experienced by victims, and some settlements factor in long-term care needs resulting from listeria-related health issues in Alabama.

The current legal status is that Alabama offers two primary avenues for action: individual lawsuits and class action lawsuits. Individual lawsuits provide tailored strategies and greater control, often resulting in higher compensation as the payout isn’t divided among multiple plaintiffs.

Class action lawsuits can help reduce costs and streamline the legal process by consolidating multiple claims into a single case in Alabama. However, it’s important to note that filing eligibility is time-sensitive and governed by the state’s statutes of limitations.

These legal proceedings aim to hold Boar’s Head Deli accountable for the health impacts caused by its contaminated deli meats in Alabama. Evidence from health officials strengthens the case, and the lawsuit seeks compensation for victims affected by the outbreak in the state.

Filing a Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit in Alabama

Filing a lawsuit in Alabama begins with a complimentary case review to explore your legal options. Essential evidence may include medical records and purchase receipts that link the illness to contaminated products bought in Alabama.

While most cases are resolved through settlements, some may proceed to court if an agreement cannot be reached. Typically, lawyers operate contingently, meaning claimants are not charged upfront fees.

Get Your Free Consultation From Alabama Boar’s Head Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark,LLP is committed to providing support during these challenging times. If the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak has impacted you or a loved one in Alabama, we encourage you to contact us.

Our skilled team, specializing in foodborne illness cases in Alabama, will guide you through each step of the legal process.

We will help you understand your rights and evaluate your eligibility for compensation related to the listeria outbreak in Alabama. Our consultations are free, and we only collect fees if we successfully win your case.

Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation of your situation and to explore your legal options in Alabama.

Reference:

  1. https://www.cspinet.org/cspi-news/boars-head-listeria-outbreak-what-you-need-know
  2. https://www.inc.com/associated-press/plant-linked-to-listeria-deaths-had-many-food-safety-violations.html
  3. https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534838/

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