Tahini Recall Lawsuit | Get the Right Lawyer

Tahini Recall Lawsuit Overview

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against tahini manufacturers and distributors due to products contaminated with Salmonella bacteria.

These legal actions center on allegations that companies failed to maintain proper safety standards in their manufacturing processes.

The FDA has reported numerous recalls affecting hundreds of cases of tahini products across the United States. Several consumers have reported severe foodborne illnesses after consuming contaminated tahini products.

Latest Tahini Lawsuit Updates

• March 5, 2021 – Garden City, Michigan-based Kareem Mart recalled 1lb, 2lb, and 10kg packages of “Tahina” food treats over potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, according to an FDA Recall Notice [1]. 
• February 15, 2021 – Kenilworth, New Jersey-based Turkana Food Inc. recalled 858 cases of Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste due to potential Salmonella contamination, affecting products distributed to retail stores and restaurants across the US [2]. 
• November 30, 2021 – Bensenville, Illinois-based International Golden Foods, Inc (IGF) recalled certain lot codes of the Al Kanater brand tahini because it had the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
• July 12, 2014 – AB World Foods US, Inc. recalled Al’Fez Natural Tahini in 5.6oz glass jars due to potential Salmonella contamination, according to an FDA Recall Alert [3].
• 2021 – Five Star Foods, Inc., a Garden City, Michigan establishment, recalled 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 800 g and 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 400 g containers over potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, according to ClickOnDetroit [4].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System and MAUDE database:

• Over 25 reported cases of Salmonella infection have been directly linked to contaminated tahini products between 2014 and 2021
• The FDA issued multiple recall notices for tahini products from various manufacturers
• Products recalled include Aleppo Tahini, Al’Fez Natural Tahini, Al Kanater Tahini, and “Tahina” food treats
• Salmonella contamination was confirmed through laboratory testing in multiple production lots
• Recalls have affected products distributed across all 50 states

The FDA has specifically designated tahini products “that appear to be adulterated due to the presence of Salmonella” as a high-risk food category. The agency continues to monitor tahini imports and domestic production for potential contamination.

Tahini Injuries & Side Effects

Consumption of Salmonella-contaminated tahini products can lead to serious health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting lasting 4-7 days
• Severe Dehydration: Requiring hospitalization and intravenous fluid replacement
• Bacteremia: Salmonella infection spreading to the bloodstream, potentially life-threatening
• Reactive Arthritis: Joint pain and inflammation that can persist for months or years after infection
• Long-term Intestinal Issues: Irritable bowel syndrome and other persistent digestive problems

According to the CDC, Salmonella infections lead to approximately 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States each year, with contaminated food being the primary source.

Do You Qualify for a Tahini Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a tahini lawsuit if:

• You consumed a recalled tahini product between 2014 and 2025
• You experienced symptoms of Salmonella infection within 72 hours of consumption
• Your illness required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You have medical documentation confirming Salmonella infection
• You can provide proof of purchase of the contaminated product
• Your case falls within the statute of limitations for food poisoning claims in your state

Evidence Required for a Tahini Lawsuit

To strengthen your tahini contamination lawsuit, you will need to gather:

• Medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
• Proof of purchase of the recalled tahini product (receipts, credit card statements)
• Product packaging or remaining product for testing (if available)
• Documentation of lost wages and other financial impacts
• Timeline of consumption, symptom onset, and medical care

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Salmonella food poisoning from contaminated tahini may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
• Wrongful death damages (for fatal cases)

Tahini Recall Information

Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste Recall

• Recall Date: February 15, 2021
• Manufacturer: Turkana Food Inc. (Kenilworth, New Jersey)
• Products Affected: 858 cases of Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste in 16oz plastic jars
• UPC Codes: 6-98817-12002-0
• Distribution: Products were distributed to retail stores and restaurants across the US

Al’Fez Natural Tahini Recall

• Recall Date: July 12, 2014
• Manufacturer: AB World Foods US, Inc.
• Products Affected: 5.6oz glass jars of Al’Fez Natural Tahini
• Distribution: The recalled product was distributed nationwide to retail markets from 2012 to 2014

Al Kanater Tahini Recall

• Recall Date: November 30, 2021
• Manufacturer: International Golden Foods, Inc. (Bensenville, Illinois)
• Products Affected: Al Kanater Tahini Sesame Paste 1 lb. (454 gr)
• Lot Codes: Lot # TT4N-20127
• UPC Code: 6-92551-00002-0
• Distribution: Nationwide in 16 oz jars

Kareem Mart “Tahina” Recall

• Recall Date: March 5, 2021
• Manufacturer: Kareem Mart (Garden City, Michigan)
• Products Affected: 1lb, 2lb, and 10kg packages of “Tahina” food treats
• Distribution: Mediterranean food stores in Michigan and Chicago, Illinois
• Production Dates: April 2020 to October 2020

Excellent Tahina Recall

• Recall Date: 2021
• Manufacturer: Five Star Foods, Inc. (Garden City, Michigan)
• Products Affected: 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 800 g and 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 400 g containers
• Distribution: Michigan, Ohio, New York, Florida, North Dakota, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Texas

Statute of Limitations for Tahini Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a tahini lawsuit varies by state and circumstances:

• Most states allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim
• Some states extend this period if the contamination was not immediately discoverable
• Product liability claims typically have a 2-4 year statute of limitations
• Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within 1-3 years of the date of death

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after experiencing food poisoning symptoms, as waiting too long could forfeit your right to compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Makes Tahini Products Susceptible to Salmonella Contamination?

Tahini is made from sesame seeds, which can harbor bacteria if not properly processed. Contamination typically occurs during harvesting, processing, or packaging. The low moisture content and high oil composition of tahini allows Salmonella to survive for extended periods, making proper manufacturing controls essential.

2. How Is Salmonella Infection from Tahini Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis occurs through stool sample testing to identify the specific bacteria. Treatment typically involves hydration, rest, and sometimes antibiotics for severe cases. Most patients recover within 4-7 days, though complications may require hospitalization and intravenous therapy.

3. What Compensation Can I Receive for a Tahini-Related Salmonella Infection?

Victims typically receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages. Settlement amounts vary based on illness severity, hospitalization duration, long-term effects, and negligence evidence. Most settlements range from $10,000 to $100,000.

4. How Do I Prove My Illness Was Caused by Contaminated Tahini?

Proving causation requires medical documentation confirming Salmonella infection, proof of product purchase, and evidence linking your illness timeline to consumption. Laboratory testing matching your infection strain to the recalled product provides the strongest evidence for establishing this crucial causal link.

5. Are Tahini Lawsuits Handled Individually or as Class Actions?

These cases can proceed either way depending on circumstances. Individual lawsuits are common for severe illnesses requiring hospitalization. Class actions typically form when many people experience similar mild to moderate symptoms from the same contaminated batch, allowing for more efficient legal processing.

6. How Long Does a Typical Tahini Contamination Lawsuit Take to Resolve?

Most food poisoning lawsuits resolve within 6-18 months, depending on case complexity and evidence strength. Cases requiring extensive medical testimony or involving multiple defendants may take longer. Many cases settle before trial, especially with strong documentation linking illness to contaminated product.

7. What Safety Measures Have Been Implemented to Prevent Future Contamination?

Manufacturers have implemented improved heat treatment processes, enhanced testing protocols, and stricter supplier verification programs. The FDA has increased import inspections and established more rigorous testing requirements. Third-party certification programs now verify safety protocols throughout the supply chain.

8. Who Is Most at Risk from Salmonella Contamination in Tahini Products?

High-risk groups include children under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. These populations experience more severe symptoms and higher hospitalization rates. Anyone with these risk factors should exercise caution with tahini products and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.

Also read: Halva Recall Lawsuit

Get A Free Tahini Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for tahini-related food poisoning. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this time period may be rapidly approaching for many affected individuals.

Our food poisoning litigation team is currently accepting new Salmonella infection cases related to contaminated tahini products in all 50 states. We offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Experienced representation from attorneys specializing in foodborne illness litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your suffering and medical expenses.

References:

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kareem-mart-recalls-tahina-because-possible-health-risks
2. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/turkana-food-inc-recalls-aleppo-tahini-sesame-paste-1lb-16oz-because-possible-health-risk
3. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ab-world-foods-us-inc-recalls-alfez-natural-tahini-because-possible-health-risk
4. https://www.clickondetroit.com/consumer/help-me-hank/2020/01/23/cases-of-tahini-distributed-in-michigan-recalled-due-to-salmonella-concern/