McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

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McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit Overview

McDonald’s is facing multiple lawsuits over an E. coli outbreak linked to their Quarter Pounder sandwiches.

At least 75 E. coli infections have been reported across 10 states, resulting in at least 10 hospitalizations and one death of an elderly person.

The FDA and CDC are actively investigating which specific ingredient in the Quarter Pounder was contaminated, with initial findings suggesting slivered onions from a single supplier may be responsible.

Latest McDonald’s Lawsuit Updates

• October 30, 2024: A 15-year-old girl from Grand Junction, Colorado, is the latest person to allegedly develop an E. coli infection after eating a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwich. Kamberlyn Bowler was airlifted to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Aurora, where she is currently being treated for symptoms of kidney failure [1].
• October 28, 2024: Nebraska woman Clarissa DeBock filed a lawsuit against McDonald’s, claiming she developed severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and nausea after consuming a Quarter Pounder. Testing confirmed she was infected with E. coli O157:H7, the strain implicated in the outbreak [2].
• October 23, 2024: The first lawsuit was filed against McDonald’s in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. Plaintiff Eric Stelly of Greeley, Colorado, claims he became seriously ill after eating at a local McDonald’s restaurant on October 4, 2024, requiring emergency medical attention. The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for strict products liability, negligence, and breach of implied warranties.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA and CDC, the Quarter Pounder E. coli outbreak has affected at least 75 people across 10 states [3]. States with confirmed cases include:

• Colorado (26)
• Nebraska (9)
• Utah (4)
• Wyoming (4)
• Oregon (1)
• Montana (1)
• Kansas (1)
• Missouri (1)
• Iowa (1)
• Wisconsin (1)

Health officials warn that these numbers likely underrepresent the true scope of the outbreak, as many affected individuals may recover without seeking medical attention or obtaining formal testing.

The CDC has identified this McDonald’s outbreak as the latest in a series involving E. coli bacteria, following an outbreak linked to organic walnuts in July that sickened 13 people [4] and another outbreak in March linked to raw cheese that sickened 11 [5].

According to the World Health Organization:

• E. coli O157 is responsible for an estimated 63,000 cases of hemorrhagic colitis in the United States each year.
• A global review from 10 out of 14 World Health Organization subregions estimates approximately 2.8 million cases of E. coli annually.

Related Articles:

• What Causes Food Poisoning?
• How Long Does Food Poisoning Last

McDonald’s E. Coli Injuries & Side Effects

E. coli O157:H7 infections can cause severe illness and potentially life-threatening complications, particularly in vulnerable populations.

• Severe Abdominal Cramps: Intense pain in the abdomen, often debilitating
• Bloody Diarrhea: A hallmark symptom of serious E. coli infections
• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): A severe complication causing kidney failure, particularly in children
• Dehydration: Due to fluid loss from persistent diarrhea and vomiting
• Systemic Infection: In severe cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines

Do You Qualify for a McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a McDonald’s food poisoning lawsuit if:

• You ate a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwich in September or October 2024
• You experienced symptoms of E. coli infection within 10 days of consuming the product
• You sought medical treatment for your symptoms
• You were diagnosed with an E. coli infection or related complications
• You can provide documentation linking your illness to McDonald’s food consumption

Evidence Required for a McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather the following evidence:

• Medical records confirming your E. coli diagnosis
• Proof of purchase from McDonald’s (receipts, credit card statements)
• Documentation of all medical expenses related to your illness
• Records of missed work and lost wages
• Journal documenting your symptoms and recovery process

Also Read: Beef Ravioli E. Coli Lawsuit

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of McDonald’s food poisoning may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, medications, follow-up care)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages against McDonald’s

McDonald’s E. Coli Recall Information

As a precautionary measure, McDonald’s stores in Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and portions of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma have temporarily stopped using Quarter Pounder slivered onions and beef patties.

The company stated that initial findings indicate some of the E. coli infections may be associated with slivered onions from a single supplier serving 3 distribution centers.

McDonald’s President on Deadly E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Quarter Pounders: TODAY Video

Statute of Limitations for McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuits

The time limit to file a food poisoning lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe for your state.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are the Common Symptoms of E. Coli Infection from McDonald’s Food?

Common symptoms include severe abdominal cramps, watery or bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, and mild to severe dehydration. Symptoms typically appear 3-4 days after exposure but can start anywhere from 1-10 days post-exposure.

2. How Is an E. Coli Infection Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis involves stool tests to identify the presence of E. coli bacteria. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms, maintaining hydration, and monitoring for complications. Antibiotics are generally not recommended as they may increase the risk of developing HUS.

3. Who Is Most at Risk for Severe Complications from E. Coli?

Children under 5, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of developing severe complications such as HUS. These groups should seek medical attention immediately if they suspect E. coli infection.

4. How Can I Prove My E. Coli Infection Came from McDonald’s?

Evidence linking your infection to McDonald’s may include receipt of purchase, credit card statements, loyalty app history, medical records documenting the timing of your symptoms, and stool test results identifying the specific E. coli strain that matches the outbreak strain.

5. What Compensation Might I Receive in a McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit?

Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. Settlement amounts vary based on the severity of illness, long-term health impacts, and strength of evidence linking McDonald’s to your infection.

6. How Long Does a Food Poisoning Lawsuit Against a Restaurant Chain Typically Take?

Food poisoning lawsuits against major restaurant chains typically take 1-2 years to resolve, depending on case complexity and whether it proceeds to trial or settles. Individual cases may resolve sooner if clear evidence links your illness to the outbreak.

7. Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit Against McDonald’s for E. Coli Poisoning?

While individual lawsuits are currently being filed, they may eventually be consolidated into multi-district litigation (MDL) or class action. An experienced food safety attorney can advise on the best legal approach for your specific situation.

8. What Should I Do If I Think I Have E. Coli After Eating at McDonald’s?

Seek immediate medical attention, request stool testing for E. coli, save your receipt or proof of purchase, document your symptoms, report your illness to your local health department, and consult with a food safety attorney as soon as possible.

Get A Free McDonald’s Food Poisoning Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for McDonald’s food poisoning cases. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case

References

1. https://www.today.com/health/news/teen-hospitalized-mcdonalds-quarter-pounder-e-coli-rcna177820
2. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/woman-suing-mcdonalds-describes-e-coli-symptoms-rcna177140
3. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-mcdonalds-quarter-pounders-october-2024
4. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-bulk-organic-walnuts-april-2024
5. https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/epi-raw-milk-cheese-2-24.html