New Hampshire Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Lawyer

Boar’s Head is currently under scrutiny for its involvement in one of the largest listeria outbreaks in recent years. The outbreak led to several hospitalizations and fatalities across multiple states, including New Hampshire, therefore leading to numerous lawsuits, with claims alleging negligence in maintaining proper food safety standards at its production facilities.

This article covers outbreak specifics, legal developments, and steps for filing claims in the Granite State. If the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak in New Hampshire has affected you or your loved ones, S&C is prepared to advocate for your right to fair compensation.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by offering expert legal support tailored to foodborne illnesses like the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak. 

Our firm offers specialized assistance tailored to New Hampshire residents: 

• Thorough assessment of economic and non-economic damages under New Hampshire law

• Complimentary initial case evaluations for New Hampshire clients 

• Expert guidance on New Hampshire’s legal deadlines and transparent client communication

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak: Latest Updates

As of October 10, 2024, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has reported 5 cases in the state, part of a larger outbreak affecting 9 states. Federal health agencies identified the outbreak strain in a Boar’s Head ham sample from a New Hampshire facility.

This discovery prompted a recall of approximately 2,200 tons of Boar’s Head deli products manufactured between August 15 and September 30, 2024, at the New Hampshire plant. The recall impacts over 45 packaged items distributed primarily in New Hampshire and neighboring New England states.

Boar’s Head’s Violations of Food Safety Regulations

According to documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, Boar’s Head’s facility faced 69 instances of noncompliance with federal food safety regulations linked to the listeria outbreak [1]. 

According to investigations, the plant had a long history of infractions, including:

• Failure to control temperature: Key to preventing bacterial growth, especially for Listeria monocytogenes.

• Improper cleaning and sanitation: Equipment and surfaces were not properly sanitized, spreading contamination.

• Inadequate employee hygiene: Workers did not adhere to proper food handling and hygiene practices, increasing contamination risks.

Government inspectors logged these violations over the past year, which included improper temperature control, inadequate sanitation, and poor employee hygiene. 

Despite repeated warnings, several of these infractions occurred in the weeks leading up to the outbreak. The ongoing safety lapses contributed to the contamination that resulted in multiple deaths and hospitalizations, leading to legal action against the company for negligence.

Also Read: Nebraska Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit

Which Boar’s Head Products Are Recalled in New Hampshire?

Boar’s Head products that are recalled in New Hampshire include several deli meats and ready-to-eat products. 

Recalled items include [2]:

• Ham

• Turkey breast

• Roast beef

These products were produced between August 25 and September 20, 2024, and have best-by dates ranging from October 5 to November 15, 2024. 

Consumers should look for USDA inspection marks labeled ‘EST. 19874’ or ‘P-19874’ on the packaging. 

The recall primarily impacts ready-to-eat meat and poultry items distributed from the New Hampshire production facility.

What is Listeria Monocytogenes?

Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that causes listeriosis, a serious foodborne illness. It can thrive in cold environments, such as refrigerators, making it a persistent contaminant in certain foods, including deli meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and soft cheeses [3].

Listeria is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including:

• Pregnant women: Being effected can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe infections in newborns.

• Newborns, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe symptoms, including meningitis or septicemia.

While healthy individuals may experience mild symptoms like fever or muscle aches, severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications.

Listeria Symptoms

The New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services advises that symptoms may appear between 24 hours and 70 days after consuming contaminated food.

Typical symptoms include [4]:

• Fever 

• Muscle aches 

• Gastrointestinal issues

Severe cases in New Hampshire have presented with: 

• Intense headaches

• Neck stiffness

• Confusion

• Loss of balance

• Seizures

New Hampshire health officials emphasize that while pregnant women might experience mild symptoms, they face significant risks of miscarriage or stillbirth.

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

New Hampshire residents who consumed recalled Boar’s Head deli meats and subsequently suffered listeria-related illnesses can file a Boar’s Head meat lawsuit in New Hampshire. This includes individuals who required hospitalization at New Hampshire medical facilities and families who lost loved ones to the infection in the state.

Prompt action is crucial, as New Hampshire’s statute of limitations imposes a three-year deadline for filing personal injury claims.

“In interviews with sick people, 23 of 24 (89%) reported eating meats sliced at deli counters. Thirteen people reported eating deli sliced liverwurst, with seven of those reporting Boar’s Head brand.”- U.S Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in New Hampshire

The Boar’s Head listeria outbreak lawsuit in New Hampshire has led to various compensation claims. The average settlement amounts can vary significantly based on the severity of the illness and associated damages. 

For cases involving hospitalization or long-term health issues, settlements typically range from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. In more severe cases, such as those involving death or lasting disabilities, compensation may exceed these amounts.

Victims in New Hampshire can seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs

• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity

• Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional

• Wrongful death, in cases of fatality

Settlements are often negotiated out of court, but individual amounts will depend on the specific details of each case.

What Is The Current Legal Status?

The current legal status is multiple lawsuits in several states, including New Hampshire. A class action lawsuit has been initiated in New Hampshire, alongside individual claims filed in various counties. 

These lawsuits accuse Boar’s Head of negligence in maintaining safe production standards, which resulted in hospitalizations and deaths. 

While many cases are anticipated to settle, some may proceed to trial as the legal process unfolds and victims seek compensation for their losses.

Filing a Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit in New Hampshire

If you’ve been affected by the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak in New Hampshire, you may be eligible for compensation. Gather medical records, purchase receipts as evidence, and consult with an attorney for a free case evaluation. 

Under New Hampshire law, personal injury claims must be filed within three years. Most cases settle, but some may go to trial. Legal fees are typically charged only if your case is successful.

Get Your Free Consultation From New Hampshire Boar’s Head Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark,LLP is here to provide support during these challenging times. If the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak has impacted you or a loved one, feel free to reach out to us. 

Our experienced team specializes in foodborne illness cases and will guide you through the legal process. We’re dedicated to helping you understand your rights and assess your eligibility for compensation related to the outbreak. 

Consultations are free, and you’ll only pay fees if we successfully win your case. Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation and to explore your legal options.

Reference:

1. https://www.inc.com/associated-press/plant-linked-to-listeria-deaths-had-many-food-safety-violations.html
2. https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534838/
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/listeria-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20355269