Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuit Overview

Lawsuits are being filed against L.A. Link Corporation regarding Shiitake-Ya brand Gourmet Shiitake Mushroom Slices sold at Costco locations in California, Oregon, and Washington. The primary allegations involve contamination with carbendazim, fluoranthene, and pyrene—chemicals not approved for dried mushrooms. The FDA identified these contaminants during routine testing and issued a formal recall on May 23, 2012, due to potential health risks.

Latest Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuit Updates

January 30, 2025 – Reports confirm Listeria contamination in Shiitake mushrooms, raising public safety concerns and potential grounds for consumer lawsuits [1].

October 31, 2024 – Labeling violations and regulatory non-compliance in Shiitake mushrooms may prompt legal action as consumer protection laws are enforced.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA’s routine monitoring systems identified the following issues with recalled Shiitake-Ya Gourmet Shiitake Slices:

• Contamination with carbendazim, fluoranthene, and pyrene, detected through routine sampling in 2012
• These chemicals are unapproved residues not permitted in dried mushroom products under FDA regulations
• The contamination affects 6 oz. plastic jars labeled with a sell by date of 04/16/2013
• Products were distributed to Costco Wholesale locations in California, Oregon, and Washington

Shiitake Mushroom Injuries & Side Effects

Consumption of contaminated shiitake mushrooms can lead to several health complications, ranging from mild to severe.

• Shiitake Mushroom Dermatitis: Itchy, inflamed rash caused by lentinan, a compound found in raw or undercooked shiitake mushrooms
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea following consumption
• Allergic Reactions: Including skin swelling, respiratory distress, or heightened sensitivity to sunlight
• Chemical Exposure Effects: Potential health impacts from carbendazim, fluoranthene, and pyrene contamination

Do You Qualify for a Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Shiitake Mushroom lawsuit if:

• You purchased Shiitake-Ya brand Gourmet Shiitake Mushroom Slices from Costco in California, Oregon, or Washington
• The product was 6 oz. plastic jar with a SELL BY date of 04/16/2013
• You experienced serious side effects including dermatitis, gastrointestinal issues, or allergic reactions
• Your symptoms required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the consumption of these mushrooms

Evidence Required for a Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuit

To build a strong case, the following evidence is typically needed:

• Receipt or proof of purchase from Costco
• The product packaging if available
• Medical records documenting your symptoms and treatment
• Timeline connecting consumption of the product to the onset of symptoms

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of food contamination may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses for treatment of food poisoning or related conditions
• Lost wages due to illness and recovery time
• Pain and suffering associated with the illness
• Punitive damages against negligent manufacturers

Shiitake Mushroom Recall Information

• Recall Date: May 23, 2012
• Products Affected: Shiitake-Ya Brand Gourmet Shiitake Mushroom Slices, packaged in 6 oz. plastic jars with a SELL BY date of 04/16/2013
• Manufacturer: L.A. Link Corporation, Cerritos, CA
• Retailers: Costco Wholesale stores in California, Oregon, and Washington
• Reason: Voluntary recall due to contamination with carbendazim, fluoranthene, and pyrene, detected by FDA routine testing (no related lawsuits reported as of 2023)

Statute of Limitations for Shiitake Mushroom Lawsuits

Time limits for filing food contamination lawsuits vary by state. In general, most food poisoning claims must be filed within 1-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of illness. Contact our attorneys immediately to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe for your state.

Related Articles:

• Guan’s Mushroom Recall
• Enoki Mushrooms Lawsuit

See all related food poisoning lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. What should I do if I have consumed the recalled Shiitake Mushroom Slices?

If you’ve consumed the recalled product, monitor for symptoms including rash, digestive issues, or allergic reactions. Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms and report adverse reactions to Costco or the FDA.

2. How can I get a refund for the recalled Shiitake Mushroom Slices?

Return the recalled Shiitake Mushroom Slices to your local Costco store for a full refund or dispose of them immediately as instructed by the manufacturer.

3. How is Shiitake Mushroom Dermatitis treated?

Shiitake dermatitis typically resolves within 10-14 days. Treatment includes antihistamines to relieve itching, topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and avoiding undercooked shiitake mushrooms in the future. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

4. What chemicals were found in the contaminated mushrooms?

The FDA detected carbendazim, fluoranthene, and pyrene in the recalled mushrooms. These chemicals are not approved for use in dried mushroom products and may be harmful if consumed.

5. Who is eligible to file a Shiitake Mushroom lawsuit?

Individuals who purchased and consumed the contaminated product and subsequently experienced serious illness requiring medical treatment may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

6. What compensation might I receive from a Shiitake Mushroom lawsuit?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages against negligent parties.

7. How long will a Shiitake Mushroom lawsuit take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on case complexity, but food contamination lawsuits typically take between 1-3 years to reach resolution through settlement or trial.

8. Is this a class action lawsuit?

Currently, individual lawsuits are being filed. Our attorneys will evaluate your case to determine the most appropriate legal approach.

9. What other mushroom recalls should consumers be aware of?

Related recalls include Guan’s Mushroom products and Enoki Mushrooms, which have also been subject to contamination concerns and subsequent litigation.

10. How can I prove my illness was caused by the contaminated mushrooms?

Medical documentation establishing a timeline between consumption and symptom onset, along with proof of purchase and product identification, helps establish causation.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action in food contamination cases, with many states allowing only 1-2 years from the date of injury to file claims. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.

Our services include:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case

If you or a loved one suffered illness after consuming contaminated Shiitake Mushroom Slices from Costco, contact the Food Poisoning Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, LLP immediately. Our experienced team of trial lawyers is currently accepting new food poisoning cases in all 50 states.

[START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW]

Reference:

[1] https://www.digicomply.com/food-safety-incidents/listeria-monocytogenes-has-been-detected-in-shiitake-mushrooms