Published by If you or a loved one experienced Listeria infection or food poisoning symptoms following consumption of recalled TJ Farms Cauliflower products, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to contaminated food products.
Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- Listeria Infection Symptoms & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit?
- Cauliflower Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Cauliflower Recall Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. How can I check if my cauliflower is part of the recall?
- 2. What are the symptoms of Listeria infection?
- 3. Can I get a refund for the recalled cauliflower?
- 4. What should I do if I have consumed the recalled cauliflower and feel sick?
- 5. Who is most at risk from Listeria infection?
- 6. How long after eating contaminated cauliflower might symptoms appear?
- 7. Can I file a lawsuit if a family member died from Listeria infection?
- 8. How are these cases typically resolved?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
- References
Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit Overview
The cauliflower recall lawsuits center on products contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous pathogen that can cause serious illness.
Primary allegations against Flagship Food Group include inadequate food safety protocols and failure to prevent bacterial contamination in their imported cauliflower products.
The recall was initiated after a sample of TJ Farms Cauliflower tested positive for Listeria during a random test conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a recall notice for specific lots of cauliflower imported from China and distributed in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
Latest Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit Updates
November 24, 2021 – Flagship Food Group initiated a recall of 16 oz. packages of TJ Farms Cauliflower with specific lot codes after Listeria monocytogenes contamination was discovered through random testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
FDA Reports and Statistics
According to FDA and CDC data regarding Listeria contamination in food products:
- Listeria monocytogenes causes approximately 1,600 cases of foodborne illness in the United States annually
- About 260 deaths occur each year due to Listeria infections
- Pregnant women are 10 times more likely to become infected, with severe consequences including miscarriage and stillbirth
- Adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness
- The hospitalization rate for Listeria infection is approximately 94%, significantly higher than most other foodborne pathogens
Listeria Infection Symptoms & Side Effects
Listeria monocytogenes contamination in cauliflower can cause a range of symptoms that may appear within a few days to several weeks after consumption.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Invasive Infection: Headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions if the infection spreads to the nervous system
- Pregnancy Complications: Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn
- Severe Complications: Septicemia, meningitis, encephalitis, and death, particularly in immunocompromised individuals
Do You Qualify for a Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a cauliflower recall lawsuit if:
- You purchased and consumed TJ Farms Cauliflower with lot code 2077890089 and UPC 75544000604-3
- You experienced symptoms of Listeria infection including fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, stiff neck, confusion, or loss of balance following consumption
- You received medical diagnosis or treatment for Listeria infection or related food poisoning
- You can provide documentation linking your illness to the consumption of recalled cauliflower products
- Your illness required medical treatment or hospitalization
- In cases of pregnancy, you experienced complications such as miscarriage or premature delivery after consuming the affected product
Evidence Required for a Cauliflower Recall Lawsuit
- Medical records confirming diagnosis of Listeria infection or related food poisoning
- Proof of purchase of the recalled cauliflower product (receipts, bank statements)
- Product packaging showing the affected lot code and UPC number
- Documentation of medical treatment received for the food poisoning
- Timeline of consumption and onset of symptoms
Damages You Can Recover
- Medical expenses for treatment of Listeria infection and related complications
- Lost wages due to time off work during illness and recovery
- Pain and suffering related to the physical discomfort and emotional distress
- In pregnancy cases, compensation for pregnancy loss or complications
- Punitive damages in cases where extreme negligence can be proven
Cauliflower Recall Information
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the recalled cauliflower was imported from China and distributed in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin [1].
The recalled product is:
| Product Description | Lot Codes | UPC Code |
|---|---|---|
| 16 oz. TJ Farms Cauliflower | 2077890089 | 75544000604-3 |
“Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
The affected lot code and UPC are located on the back panel lower left corner of the bag.
This recall was initiated after a sample of cauliflower yielded a positive result for Listeria monocytogenes in a random sample test conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
If you purchased any cauliflower that is affected by this recall, you should not eat it, and either discard it or return it to the point of purchase for a refund.
Anyone concerned about a potential food poisoning illness should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
This recall began on November 24, 2021.
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Statute of Limitations for Cauliflower Recall Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a cauliflower recall lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 1-3 years from the date of illness.
Some states apply the “discovery rule,” which means the clock starts when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your illness was caused by the contaminated cauliflower.
Since the recall occurred in November 2021, potential claimants should consult with an attorney promptly to ensure they do not miss their filing deadline.
FAQs
1. How can I check if my cauliflower is part of the recall?
Check the recall notice for specific product details, including batch numbers, production dates, and packaging information. Compare this information with the label on your cauliflower.
2. What are the symptoms of Listeria infection?
Symptoms of Listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance. Severe cases can lead to more serious complications.
3. Can I get a refund for the recalled cauliflower?
Yes, you can get a refund for the recalled cauliflower by returning it to the store where it was purchased. Contact the retailer for their specific refund policy.
4. What should I do if I have consumed the recalled cauliflower and feel sick?
If you have consumed the recalled cauliflower and feel sick, seek medical attention immediately. Inform your healthcare provider about the potential exposure to contaminated food.
5. Who is most at risk from Listeria infection?
Pregnant women, newborns, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of severe illness from Listeria infection. These high-risk groups should be especially vigilant about avoiding potentially contaminated foods.
6. How long after eating contaminated cauliflower might symptoms appear?
Symptoms of Listeria infection can appear anywhere from a few days to up to 70 days after consuming contaminated food, though most people develop symptoms within 1-4 weeks of exposure.
7. Can I file a lawsuit if a family member died from Listeria infection?
Yes, if your family member died from Listeria infection after consuming recalled cauliflower, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These cases typically seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.
8. How are these cases typically resolved?
Most food contamination lawsuits are resolved through settlements before going to trial. The specific timeline and compensation vary based on the severity of illness, strength of evidence, and other case-specific factors.
See all related food poisoning lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action related to the cauliflower recall and Listeria infections. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and since the recall occurred in November 2021, the deadline for filing may be approaching in many jurisdictions.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or attorney fees
- Payment only if we win your case
- Nationwide representation with attorneys experienced in foodborne illness litigation
Don’t delay seeking the compensation you deserve for suffering caused by contaminated food products. Contact our experienced legal team today.
References
1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/flagship-food-group-recalls-frozen-cauliflower-because-possible-health-risk