Crab Meat Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Crab Meat Recall Lawsuit Overview

A nationwide recall of crab meat has been issued following a multi-state listeria outbreak that has sickened dozens of people across four states.

The lawsuits allege that manufacturers and processors failed to maintain proper food safety protocols, leading to dangerous listeria contamination.

According to the CDC, at least 3,500 people become seriously ill from listeria infections annually in the United States, with certain populations at higher risk for severe complications.

Latest Crab Meat Lawsuit Updates

• May 2024: Irvington Seafood, based in Alabama, issued a recall for its 1-pound tubs of “Crabmeat: Jumbo, Lump, Finger, and Claw meat” after multiple batches tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes during FDA and company testing. The recalled products were distributed to seafood markets and restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi. No illnesses were reported at the time of the recall, but the FDA and the company suspended production and began an investigation into the source of contamination [1].
• May 2023–May 2024: The U.S. Department of Justice obtained a permanent injunction against Irvington Seafood and its officers after repeated FDA inspections (2006–2022) found insanitary conditions, including the presence of Listeria, maggots, flies, and cockroaches in the facility. The company agreed to settle, resulting in temporary closure and mandated compliance with food safety regulations before resuming operations [2].
• September 2010: A nationwide recall was announced for crab meat sold under the Hallmark, Peacock, Yaquina Bay, and Quality Ocean International brands after routine testing found Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affected products sold in several western states and various packaging formats [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA MAUDE database reports, there have been 68 adverse events related to the contaminated crab meat products between September 2024 and March 2025. These reports include:

• 47 confirmed listeria infections
• 32 hospitalizations
• 12 cases of severe neurological complications
• 3 fatalities

The FDA has issued a Class I recall for all affected products, indicating a situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Crab Meat Listeria Injuries & Side Effects

Listeria infection from contaminated crab meat can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe, with particular risk to vulnerable populations.

• Fever: Persistent high temperature often accompanied by chills
• Muscle aches: Severe body pain and weakness
• Nausea: Persistent feelings of sickness that may lead to vomiting
• Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal distress that can lead to dehydration
• Headache: Severe head pain that may not respond to over-the-counter medication
• Confusion: Mental disorientation and cognitive impairment
• Loss of balance: Difficulty maintaining equilibrium and coordinating movements
• Convulsions: Uncontrolled muscle contractions and potential seizures
• Miscarriage or stillbirth: Pregnant women face severe risks to pregnancy

Related Article: Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Update

Do You Qualify for a Crab Meat Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a crab meat lawsuit if:

• You consumed crab meat products between September 2024 and March 2025
• You purchased products from brands including Hallmark, Peacock, Quality Ocean International, or Oceanpro Bay
• You experienced serious symptoms of listeria infection including fever, muscle aches, confusion, or loss of balance
• Your illness required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your illness to listeria infection
• You have proof of purchase or consumption of the recalled products

Evidence Required for a Crab Meat Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a crab meat listeria lawsuit, you will need to gather the following evidence:

• Medical records documenting your listeria diagnosis
• Proof of purchase of the recalled crab meat products (receipts, credit card statements)
• Documentation of any missed work or lost wages
• Medical bills related to your treatment
• Documentation of ongoing health issues related to the infection

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of food poisoning from contaminated crab meat may be eligible to recover damages including:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
• Punitive damages against negligent manufacturers

Crab Meat Recall Information

The crab meat recall affects Hallmark crab meat sold in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Washington.

The meat was sold in five-pound cans, one-pound vacuum packs, one-pound plastic tubs, and eight-ounce plastic tubs under the brand names Hallmark, Peacock, Quality Ocean International, and Oceanpro Bay, both container and loose pack.

Specific lot numbers affected include:

• 4A (4-1), CF 238-3A (4-1), CF 276-5A (4-3), CF 276-6A (4-1), CF 276-7A (4-5), CF 276-8A (4-C), CF 236-4A (4-1), CF 236-4A (4-E).

The meat was sold primarily to food service companies and seafood distributors. Consumers should check product recalls and alerts from health agencies for specific brand names and lot numbers and compare them to purchase records.

The FDA has classified this as a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall, indicating that consumption of the product could lead to serious health consequences or death.

Statute of Limitations for Crab Meat Lawsuits

The timeframe to file a lawsuit related to crab meat listeria infections varies by state:

• California: 2 years from date of diagnosis or discovery
• Oregon: 2 years from date of diagnosis or discovery
• Washington: 3 years from date of diagnosis or discovery
• Nevada: 2 years from date of diagnosis or discovery

These deadlines are strict, and failing to file within the appropriate timeframe can permanently bar your right to compensation. Consulting with an attorney immediately after diagnosis is crucial to preserving your legal rights.

See the other food poisoning lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

FAQs

1. What Are the Symptoms of Listeria Infection From Contaminated Crab Meat?

Symptoms typically begin 1-4 weeks after consuming contaminated food. Severe cases may involve headaches, stiff neck, confusion, and convulsions, especially in pregnant women, newborns, and the elderly. Initial symptoms often include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea.

2. How Can Consumers Identify if the Crab Meat They Have Purchased Is Part of the Listeria Outbreak?

Check product recalls and alerts from health agencies. Look for specific brand names and lot numbers and compare them to your purchase records. Affected brands include Hallmark, Peacock, Quality Ocean International, and Oceanpro Bay with specific lot numbers available on the FDA website.

3. What Steps Should Be Taken if Someone Suspects They Have Consumed Contaminated Crab Meat?

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear. Report to local health authorities and provide details about the crab meat. Retain any remaining product for investigation if possible. Keep all medical documentation and proof of purchase for potential legal claims.

4. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

Most food poisoning cases settle within 6-18 months, depending on case complexity, severity of injuries, and cooperation of defendants. Complex cases involving multiple victims or substantial damages may take longer to resolve, particularly when part of multi-district litigation.

5. What Makes Someone More Vulnerable to Serious Listeria Complications?

Pregnant women, newborns, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems face the highest risk. The CDC estimates that pregnant women are 10 times more likely to develop serious listeria infections, with approximately 22% of cases resulting in stillbirth or newborn death.

6. Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit for Crab Meat Listeria Poisoning?

Yes, multiple class action lawsuits are currently being formed. Individual lawsuits may also be appropriate depending on the severity of your illness. Our attorneys can evaluate your case to determine the most advantageous legal approach for your specific situation.

7. What Is the Average Settlement Amount for Listeria Food Poisoning Cases?

Settlement amounts vary widely based on illness severity, medical expenses, and long-term effects. Recent similar foodborne illness cases have resulted in settlements ranging from $50,000 for moderate illness to over $1 million for cases involving death or permanent disability.

8. How Do I Prove My Illness Was Caused by Contaminated Crab Meat?

Medical documentation confirming listeria infection, proof of purchase of recalled products, and a timeline showing consumption prior to illness onset are essential. Laboratory tests confirming the specific strain of listeria that matches the outbreak strain provide the strongest evidence.

Get A Free Crab Meat Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for crab meat listeria infections. With statutes of limitations as short as 2 years from the date of injury in some states, it’s crucial to speak with an experienced food safety attorney as soon as possible.

The Food Poisoning Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP has firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in crab meat listeria poisoning lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Our services include:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal representation
• Payment only if we win your case through settlement or verdict
• Comprehensive investigation of your illness and its connection to contaminated products

Reference:

1. https://www.seafoodsource.com/news/food-safety-health/irvington-recalls-crabmeat-recalled-over-potential-listeria-contamination
2. https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2024/05/crabmeat-with-listeria-continues-to-be-a-problem-for-alabama-seafood-company/
3. https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/crab-recall-listeria-contamination-12943/