Hines Walnut Recall Lawsuit | Get the Right Lawyer

Hines Nut Company, based in Dallas, TX, is issuing a recall for its walnut halves and pieces because of the potential contamination with salmonella.

Free Hines Walnut Recall Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one developed symptoms of food poisoning after eating walnut products, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit against the manufacturer and our lawyers can help.

Which Products are Affected by the Recall?

HINES NUT BRAND

• 128 cases, 25 trays per carton, in black foam trays with a Green and Gold Label
• Tray weight 16 oz.
• Packaged 3/3/15
• Lot Number 6989 (printed on label)
• Best Buy Date: 12/28/15
• UPC# 07826406516-5
• Distributed in Texas via Randalls Food Stores

Why was the Recall Issued?

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by a company contracted by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) identified the presence of salmonella in Hines Nut Company walnut halves and pieces. Consumers who have purchased affected products should not eat them, and contact Hines for a refund and disposal information. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall.

Salmonella Poisoning (Salmonellosis)

Salmonella food poisoning (salmonellosis) is a foodborne illness caused by infection with salmonella bacteria. Most infections are spread through consumption of contaminated food. The illness affects the intestines and causes vomiting, fever, cramping and diarrhea, which usually clear up within one week without medical treatment.

Cold Soak Lowers Salmonella Risk in Tree Nuts: Study

Soaking walnuts and other tree nuts in cold water, rather than the more common practice of soaking at ambient temperature, lowers the risk of salmonella growth on the foods, according to a May 2021 study published in Food Protection Trends [1.].

Making “sprouted” foods involves soaking nuts and other raw ingredients in water overnight, typically at room temperature. Soaking softens the hulls and leads to swelling that activates enzymes and reduces anti-nutrients, which are plant compounds that reduce the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients.

Following soaking, the ingredients are dried at low temperature and low humidity to maintain their “raw” label, then packaged as either single-ingredient snacks, incorporated into a complex snack, or pureed into nut or seed butters for fermented non-dairy “cheeses.”

The study demonstrates the risk of “sprouting” practices and presents practical strategies to improve safety of these raw foods.

“If this soaking phase happens at ambient temperature, then there is a significant food safety problem,” said Joy Waite-Cusic, associate professor of food safety systems in OSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “This study provides regulators with clear guidance on the risks associated with this new category of ‘sprouted’ products.”

FAQs

How does the recall process work for a product like Hines Nut Company walnuts?

The recall process involves the company notifying the FDA and the public about the potential contamination, removing the affected products from the market, and providing instructions for consumers on how to handle the recall. The company may also investigate the source of contamination to prevent future issues.

Can I sue Hines Nut Company if I didn’t get sick but purchased the recalled walnuts?

Typically, lawsuits require proof of harm, such as illness or injury. However, you may be able to seek a refund for the recalled product, and if a class-action lawsuit is filed, you might be eligible to join depending on the circumstances.

What are the potential dangers of consuming contaminated walnuts?

The primary danger of consuming contaminated walnuts is the risk of contracting Listeria, which can lead to severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. This can result in long-term health issues or even death in extreme cases.

What should retailers do if they still have recalled Hines Nut Company walnuts on their shelves?

Retailers should immediately remove any recalled walnuts from their shelves, follow the recall instructions provided by the manufacturer, and notify customers who may have purchased the product. Proper disposal of the recalled products is also crucial to prevent further contamination.

Also read: H-E-B Pistachio Recall Claim

Do I Have a Hines Walnut Recall Lawsuit?

The Food Poisoning Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in walnut recall lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new food poisoning cases in all 50 states.

Free Hines Nut Company Walnut Recall Lawsuit Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one has been sickened after eating walnuts, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a food poisoning lawsuit and our lawyers can help.