Minnesota Food Poisoning Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Minnesota Food Poisoning Lawsuit Overview

Food poisoning lawsuits have been filed against various food manufacturers, restaurants, and distributors in Minnesota, alleging negligence in food safety practices.

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has introduced new federal regulations highlighting surveillance systems for foodborne illness and outbreaks [1].

According to the CDC, Minnesota sees hundreds of food poisoning cases annually, with outbreaks linked to restaurants, food processing facilities, and retail establishments.

Latest Food Poisoning Lawsuit Updates

• November 2024 – At least 19 people in Minnesota were sickened by E. coli O157:H7 after eating ground beef served at Red Cow and Hen House Eatery restaurants. The E. coli outbreak prompted a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of ground beef by Wolverine Packing Co. Four Minnesotans were hospitalized, with two developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe kidney complication. The Minnesota Department of Health and Agriculture led the investigation, and the recall was coordinated with federal agencies [2].
• June 2024 – A multistate outbreak of Salmonella was traced to cucumbers, resulting in 551 cases and 155 hospitalizations across 34 states, including Minnesota. The outbreak led to a recall of cucumbers by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. and was investigated by the FDA and CDC. The outbreak was declared over in August 2024 [3].
• Winter 2024 – 2025 – Minnesota public health authorities recorded an unusually high number of norovirus outbreaks during the winter of 2024–2025. These outbreaks were investigated by the Minnesota Department of Health, with a focus on improving food safety and sanitation in public venues [4].
• November 2021 – Between 2018 and 2022, the Great Moon Buffet in West St. Paul was investigated four times for salmonella outbreaks and health code violations. In November 2021, six people became ill after eating at the restaurant. Inspections revealed numerous sanitation issues, including rodent and cockroach infestations, improper food storage, and poor employee hygiene. The Minnesota Department of Health monitored the situation and required corrective actions [5].
• October 2021 – A multistate outbreak of Salmonella Oranienburg included 23 Minnesota residents who became ill between August and September 2021. The source was identified as contaminated onions imported from Mexico. Four Minnesotans were hospitalized, and the outbreak was widely reported by the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health [6].
• August – September 2015 – A Salmonella Newport outbreak was linked to 17 restaurants across Minnesota, mostly in the Twin Cities metro area, as well as St. Cloud and Rochester. Forty-five people became ill, with five requiring hospitalization. The Minnesota Department of Health led the investigation, identifying meal dates between August 16 and August 26, 2015, with illness onset between August 20 and August 29. Chipotle changed suppliers for the suspected ingredients, and public health officials emphasized the importance of reporting and preventing Salmonella infections [7].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA and CDC databases have documented numerous food safety incidents in Minnesota:

• 65% of reported cases involved restaurant-related food poisoning
• 22% linked to processed food products
• 13% associated with home food preparation errors
• Over 300 documented foodborne illness outbreaks in the past three years

Food Poisoning Injuries & Side Effects

Victims of food poisoning can experience a range of serious health complications:

• Severe Dehydration: Rapid fluid loss requiring medical intervention
• Persistent Gastrointestinal Damage: Long-term digestive system complications
• Kidney Failure: Potential result of severe E. Coli or Salmonella infections
• Neurological Complications: Rare but serious consequences of certain foodborne pathogens
• Chronic Fatigue and Weakness: Extended recovery periods affecting daily functioning

Do You Qualify for a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a food poisoning lawsuit if:

• You consumed food from a Minnesota restaurant, food processor, or retailer between 2022-2025
• You can document medical treatment for foodborne illness
• You experienced severe symptoms such as those from E. Coli, Salmonella, or other recognized pathogens
• You have medical records confirming the foodborne illness
• The illness resulted in significant medical expenses or lost wages

Evidence Required for a Food Poisoning Lawsuit

Critical evidence includes:

• Medical records documenting diagnosis and treatment
• Proof of food source (restaurant receipt, food packaging)
• Stool or blood test results confirming specific pathogen
• Documentation of medical expenses
• Witness statements or additional victim testimonies
• Expert medical testimony linking the illness to the specific food source

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation may include:

• Medical treatment expenses
• Lost wages during illness and recovery
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
• Future medical care costs related to long-term complications

Food Poisoning Recall Information

Notable recent food safety recalls in Minnesota:

• Nationwide Salmonella outbreak in pre-packaged salads
• Local meat processing plant recall due to potential E. Coli contamination
• Frozen food product recall affecting multiple Minnesota counties
• Restaurant-specific ingredient recalls linked to potential contamination

Statute of Limitations for Food Poisoning Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for food poisoning lawsuits is typically two years from the date of illness or from when the damage was discovered or should have been discovered.

This limited timeframe makes it critical to consult with a food poisoning lawsuit attorney promptly.

The “discovery rule” can extend the time limit in situations where the individual couldn’t reasonably have known that their injuries were caused by foodborne illness.

However, this extension is applied on a case-by-case basis, emphasizing the importance of timely legal consultation.

Related Article: Michigan Food Poisoning Lawsuit

FAQs

1. Can I File a Lawsuit for Food Poisoning in Minnesota?

Food poisoning lawsuits are possible when negligence can be proven. Some risky food choices include raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy, and unwashed produce [8]. Successful claims require documented evidence of foodborne illness.

2. What Types of Damages Can I Recover?

Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential punitive damages depending on the case’s specific circumstances. Settlements vary based on the severity of illness and demonstrable impact on the victim’s life.

3. How Do I Prove a Food Poisoning Case in Minnesota?

Proof requires medical documentation, food source identification, and expert testimony linking the specific food to your illness. Stool sample results, medical records, and restaurant or food product documentation are crucial evidence.

4. Who Can Be Held Liable for Food Poisoning?

Potential defendants include restaurants, food manufacturers, distributors, and processors who fail to maintain proper food safety standards. This can encompass establishments like Chipotle and other food service providers.

5. What is the Statute of Limitations?

Generally two years from illness discovery, with potential extensions based on individual case circumstances. The timeline begins when the foodborne illness is diagnosed or reasonably should have been discovered.

6. How Long Does a Food Poisoning Lawsuit Take?

Typical food poisoning lawsuits can take 6-18 months to resolve. Factors influencing duration include case complexity, number of parties involved, and whether the case settles out of court or goes to trial.

7. What Are the Most Common Types of Food Poisoning?

Common foodborne illnesses include Salmonella, E. Coli, Listeria, and Norovirus. Each pathogen has distinct symptoms and potential long-term health implications, affecting the strength of a potential lawsuit.

8. Are Medical Expenses Covered in Food Poisoning Lawsuits?

Medical expenses are typically a primary component of food poisoning lawsuit compensation. This includes hospital bills, medication costs, ongoing treatment, and any future medical care required due to the foodborne illness.

Get A Free Minnesota Food Poisoning Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for food poisoning cases. Most states allow only 2-4 years from the date of illness discovery to file a food poisoning lawsuit, and this window may be closing for many victims.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Experienced food poisoning attorneys
• Comprehensive case investigation
• Payment only if we win your case

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your foodborne illness injuries.

References:

1. https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma
2. https://www.fox13news.com/news/minnesota-e-coli-outbreak-beef-recall
3. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-cucumbers-june-2024
4. https://www.health.state.mn.us/about/org/phl/annualreports/2025/norovirus.html
5. https://www.startribune.com/west-st-paul-buffet-sued-by-eagan-man-following-salmonella-outbreaks/600243371
6. https://www.health.mn.gov/news/pressrel/2021/salmonella102021.html
7. https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/ep/han/2015/sep9salmonella.pdf
8. https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/foods-linked-illness.html