Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuit Overview

The Smiling Hara tempeh lawsuits stem from a 2012 Salmonella Paratyphi B outbreak linked to unpasteurized soybean tempeh produced by Smiling Hara, an Asheville, North Carolina-based company. The lawsuits allege that Smiling Hara and its supplier, Tempeh Online (Indonesianfoodmart.com, Rockville, Maryland), failed to ensure product safety, distributing tempeh contaminated with Salmonella due to a tainted Rhizopus spp. starter culture imported from Indonesia. The outbreak sickened at least 89 people across four states (North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and New York), with 64 cases in Buncombe County, North Carolina, and at least eight hospitalizations.

Latest Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuit Updates

May 2, 2012 – NBC News reported a major Salmonella outbreak linked to tainted tempeh made with imported starter culture, leading to widespread illness and public scrutiny of food safety practices [1].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported a 2012 Salmonella Paratyphi B outbreak linked to unpasteurized soybean tempeh from Smiling Hara, an Asheville, North Carolina-based company. Routine inspections by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture in April 2012 detected Salmonella in Smiling Hara’s 12-ounce tempeh packages, produced between January 11 and April 11, 2012, with best-by dates from July 11 to October 25, 2012, leading to a voluntary recall announced by the FDA on April 30, 2012. The outbreak, first identified on February 28, 2012, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, sickened at least 89 people across four states (North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and New York), with 64 cases in Buncombe County and eight hospitalizations, as confirmed by the Buncombe County Health Department and CDC.

Tempeh Salmonella Injuries & Side Effects

Salmonella infection from contaminated tempeh can cause significant health issues, ranging from mild to severe symptoms that may require hospitalization.

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Diarrhea (which may be bloody or watery) and abdominal pain
• Systemic Symptoms: Fever and headache
• Dehydration: Due to persistent diarrhea and vomiting
• Severe Complications: In vulnerable populations, including potential spread to the bloodstream

Do You Qualify for a Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Smiling Hara tempeh lawsuit if:

• You consumed Smiling Hara unpasteurized soybean tempeh manufactured between January 11 and April 11, 2012
• You experienced salmonella food poisoning symptoms within 72 hours of consumption
• Your illness required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your illness to salmonella infection

Evidence Required for a Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a claim, you will need to provide:

• Proof of purchase of the recalled tempeh (receipts, credit card statements)
• Medical records documenting your salmonella diagnosis
• Evidence of hospitalization or treatment costs related to your illness
• Documentation of lost wages if your illness caused you to miss work

Damages You Can Recover

In a successful tempeh salmonella lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment, hospitalization, and follow-up care
• Lost wages due to time away from work during recovery
• Pain and suffering caused by the illness
• Punitive damages if gross negligence is proven

Tempeh Salmonella Recall Information

Smiling Hara, an Asheville, North Carolina-based company, voluntarily recalled all unpasteurized soybean tempeh products manufactured between January 11 and April 11, 2012, due to Salmonella Paratyphi B contamination detected by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services during routine inspections in April 2012. The affected 12-ounce packages, including soy, black bean, and black-eyed pea tempeh varieties, have best-by dates ranging from July 11, 2012, to October 25, 2012, and were distributed to over 30 stores and restaurants in North Carolina, including Earth Fare and Laughing Seed. Consumers are advised to discard these products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Statute of Limitations for Tempeh Salmonella Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a food poisoning lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury or illness. In North Carolina, where the outbreak originated, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 3 years. However, it is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure all deadlines are met.

Other food poisoning lawsuits:

• Edamame Recall Listeria Infection Case
• Soy Nut Butter Recall Case
• Meijer Egg Recall Poisoning Case
• Nationwide Plum Food Poisoning Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. What must be proven to win a Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh recall lawsuit?

To win, plaintiffs must prove that they consumed the contaminated tempeh, that the contamination caused their illness or injury, and that the manufacturer was negligent in ensuring the product’s safety.

2. What compensation might I receive from a Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh recall lawsuit?

Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and possibly punitive damages depending on the severity of the harm caused and the level of negligence.

3. Is there a deadline for filing a Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh recall lawsuit?

Yes, there are statutes of limitations for filing a lawsuit, which vary by state. It is crucial to act promptly and consult with an attorney to ensure you file within the required timeframe.

4. What evidence is needed to support a Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh recall lawsuit?

Evidence can include medical records showing the illness, receipts or proof of purchase of the tempeh, laboratory test results confirming contamination, and any communication with health authorities or the manufacturer.

5. How long does it take to resolve a food poisoning lawsuit?

The timeline varies depending on case complexity, but most food poisoning lawsuits are resolved within 1-2 years. Some cases settle much sooner, while others that go to trial may take longer.

6. Can I join a class action lawsuit for the Smiling Hara tempeh recall?

Depending on the circumstances, a class action may be formed. However, individual lawsuits are often more appropriate for food poisoning cases due to the varying nature of injuries and damages.

7. What if I threw away the contaminated product and don’t have proof of purchase?

Medical records showing a salmonella diagnosis during the outbreak period may still support your claim. An experienced attorney can help evaluate your case even without a receipt.

8. Will my case go to trial or settle out of court?

Most food poisoning cases settle out of court, but our legal team prepares every case as if it will go to trial to maximize your potential recovery.

9. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a tempeh recall lawsuit?

Our firm handles food poisoning cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs or fees.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for salmonella food poisoning related to the Smiling Hara tempeh recall. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, so it’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP, LLP offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees – we only get paid if we win your case
• Nationwide representative with experience handling complex food contamination cases

Do I Have a Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh 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 Smiling Hara soybean tempeh recall lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new salmonella food poisoning cases in all 50 states.

Free Smiling Hara Soybean Tempeh Recall Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with salmonella food poisoning after eating Smiling Hara soybean tempeh included in this recall, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a salmonella food poisoning lawsuit and we can help.

References:

[1] https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/tainted-tempeh-linked-salmonella-outbreak-flna746503