Raw Milk Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Raw Milk E. Coli Lawsuit Overview

Raw milk lawsuits primarily involve claims against dairy producers for contamination with dangerous pathogens, including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter. These lawsuits allege that producers failed to implement adequate hygiene practices or testing to ensure the safety of unpasteurized milk products before distribution.

Multiple cases of severe STEC infections, such as E. coli O157:H7, have been linked to raw milk consumption, with some resulting in hospitalization for hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can cause kidney failure, especially in children

Latest Raw Milk Lawsuit Updates

January 29, 2025 – As News-Medical reports, the surge in raw milk popularity has reignited public health warnings, with regulators stressing its potential dangers amidst political endorsements [1].

January 23, 2025 – Food Safety News notes that the legal victory for Amos Miller could set a precedent for raw milk producers facing federal restrictions, even as lawsuits over product safety continue elsewhere.

December 6, 2024 – According to food safety lawyer Bill Marler, more than 170 individuals have filed claims against Raw Farm LLC after being infected with Salmonella from unpasteurized milk products.

FDA Reports and Statistics

Raw Milk E. Coli Injuries & Side Effects

Consuming raw milk contaminated with E. coli can lead to severe health complications, particularly in children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.

• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): A serious condition that can lead to kidney failure, particularly in young children
• Severe Gastrointestinal Distress: Including bloody diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, and abdominal pain
• Dehydration: Requiring hospitalization and intravenous fluid replacement
• Long-term Complications: Including kidney damage, neurological problems, and high blood pressure

Do You Qualify for a Raw Milk Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a raw milk lawsuit if:

• You consumed raw milk or raw milk products that were subsequently recalled
• You experienced serious side effects including E. coli infection, HUS, or other foodborne illness
• Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your illness to the consumption of raw milk products
• You sought medical attention within a reasonable timeframe after consuming the contaminated product

Evidence Required for a Raw Milk Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a raw milk lawsuit, you’ll need to gather specific evidence:

• Medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
• Proof of purchase of the contaminated raw milk product (receipts, credit card statements)
• Product packaging or labeling, if available
• Documentation of missed work and lost wages due to your illness
• Medical bills and related expenses

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of E. coli poisoning from raw milk products may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including hospital stays, medications, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering associated with the illness
• Long-term health complications resulting from the infection
• Punitive damages if the dairy producer showed gross negligence

Raw Milk Recall Information

In November 2011, Organic Pastures Dairy voluntarily recalled its raw milk, butter, cream, colostrum, and Qephor products from store shelves throughout California following an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to its raw milk. The outbreak, reported on November 10, 2011, involved five children in California, three of whom developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition causing kidney failure. No deaths were reported. Despite extensive testing, E. coli O157:H7 was not isolated from product samples, but epidemiological evidence strongly linked the outbreak to Organic Pastures’ raw milk.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) imposed a quarantine on the Organic Pastures facility on November 15, 2011, prohibiting the production and sale of raw milk products until the contamination source was identified and corrective measures were implemented.

Statute of Limitations for Raw Milk Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a raw milk lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury or illness. However, in cases involving food contamination, the “discovery rule” may apply, meaning the clock starts when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your illness was linked to a contaminated product.

It’s essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after becoming ill to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe for your state.

Related articles:

• Midland Farms Listeria And Salmonella Litigation
• Cotija Chees E. Coli Food Poisoning Lawsuit
• Costco Cheese Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. How can I tell if the raw milk I purchased is part of a recall?

Check the product label for specific details like the lot number, expiration date, and packaging information, which can be matched against the recall notice to determine if your milk is affected. You can also visit the FDA’s recall website or contact the manufacturer directly.

2. What should I do if I have consumed recalled raw milk?

If you’ve consumed recalled milk and experience symptoms of foodborne illness, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine, it’s advisable to contact a healthcare provider for guidance, as symptoms may take days to develop.

3. Can I return recalled raw milk products for a refund?

Yes, you can typically return recalled milk to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement, as per the instructions provided in the recall notice.

4. What precautions should I take when handling recalled dairy products?

When handling recalled dairy products, avoid consuming them and ensure they are sealed and disposed of properly. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling to prevent cross-contamination.

5. How common are E. coli outbreaks from raw milk?

Raw milk is one of the highest-risk foods for E. coli contamination. According to the CDC, raw milk is 150 times more likely to cause foodborne illness outbreaks than pasteurized milk products.

6. How long does it take to develop symptoms of E. coli poisoning?

Symptoms typically develop within 3-4 days after consuming contaminated products, but the incubation period can range from 1-10 days.

7. How is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) diagnosed and treated?

HUS is diagnosed through blood tests and treated with supportive care, including IV fluids, blood transfusions, and kidney dialysis in severe cases. Hospitalization is almost always required.

8. What is the average settlement for an E. coli lawsuit?

Settlement amounts vary widely depending on the severity of illness, medical expenses, and long-term complications. Serious cases involving hospitalization and HUS can result in settlements ranging from $50,000 to several million dollars.

9. How long does a raw milk lawsuit typically take to resolve?

The timeline varies based on case complexity, but most food poisoning lawsuits take between 1-3 years to reach settlement or trial.

Check out the other recent food poisoning cases from Schmidt and Clark, LLP.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for raw milk-related illnesses. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Don’t delay in seeking legal assistance if you’ve been affected by contaminated raw milk products.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or legal fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Nationwide representation for victims of foodborne illness

Do You Have a Raw Milk 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 raw milk lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new E. coli food poisoning cases in all 50 states.

Free Raw Milk Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with E. coli poisoning after consuming raw milk products, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a raw milk lawsuit and we can help.

References:

[1] https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250129/Led-by-RFK-Jr-conservatives-embrace-raw-milk-Regulators-say-its-dangerous.aspx 

[2] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/e-coli-and-foodborne-illness