A Fresno, CA dairy is now recalling raw milk products after an apparent E. coli outbreak sent three children to the hospital. California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Whiteford is calling on Organic Pastures dairy to pull its raw milk, butter, cream, colostrum and ‘Qephor’ from store shelves. The company sells nearly 2,500 gallons of raw milk a day throughout the state of California.
Free Organic Pastures Dairy Whole Milk Recall Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been severely sickened after consuming Organic Pastures raw milk included in this recall, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit against Organic Pastures and we can help.
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What’s the problem?
November 26, 2011 – The California Department of Public Health is working with retailers statewide to remove Organic Pastures raw dairy products from store shelves after five children were found to be infected with a strain of E. coli that has been traced back to the company.
The outbreak of E. coli illnesses occurred in late August after the children drank raw whole milk from Organic Pastures. Three of the children were hospitalized with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that may lead to kidney failure.
“The California Department of Public Health investigated a cluster of five children infected by E. coli between August and October and determined the only common reported food exposure was to unpasteurized milk produced by the Organic Pastures Dairy,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., San Diego County Public Health Officer. “This infection can be very serious in young children and it’s important that people dispose of any remaining Organic Pastures products in their refrigerators, with the exception of cheese that has been aged a minimum of 60 days.”
In addition to the statewide recall, Dr. Whiteford has announced a quarantine of Organic Pastures dairy. Until the source of the contamination has been determined, the company is not allowed to produce any raw milk products for the retail market.
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E. Coli Food Poisoning
Escherichia coli (E. coli) are members of a large group of bacterial germs that inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and other warm-blooded animals (mammals, birds). Signs and symptoms of E. coli food poisoning may include:
- severe stomach cramps and stomach tenderness
- diarrhea, watery at first, but often becoming very bloody
- nausea
- vomiting
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year at least 2000 Americans are hospitalized, and about 60 die as a direct result of E. coli infection. A 2003 study estimated the annual cost of E. coli O157:H7 illnesses to be approximately $405 million, which included $370 million for premature deaths, $30 million for medical care, and $5 million for lost productivity.
FAQs
How can I tell if the Organic Pastures Dairy Whole Milk I purchased is part of the 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.
What should I do if I have consumed recalled Organic Pastures Dairy Whole Milk?
If you’ve consumed the 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.
Can I return the recalled Organic Pastures Dairy Whole Milk for a refund?
Yes, you can typically return the recalled milk to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement, as per the instructions provided in the recall notice.
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.
Check out the other recent food poisoning cases from Schmidt and Clark, LLP.
Do You Have an Organic Pastures Whole Milk 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 Organic Pastures whole milk recall lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new E. coli food poisoning cases in all 50 states.
Free Organic Pastures Whole Milk Recall Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with E. coli poisoning after consuming Organic Pastures whole milk included in this recall, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing an Organic Pastures whole milk recall lawsuit and we can help.