It is essential that companies handle our food and beverage supplies with the utmost care. When companies fail to exercise reasonable care with the products we consume, foods and beverages can become contaminated with poisonous chemicals, bacteria, microbes, pathogens, or other harmful substances that cause illness, disease and even death. In addition, food contamination may result in medical conditions that require monitoring or surgical procedures throughout a person’s life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, some of the most common food borne diseases are Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157:H7), Salmonella, Campylobacter, and a group of viruses called calicivirus, also known as the Norwalk and Norwalk-like viruses.  Food and beverages can become unreasonably contaminated with these pathogens a number of different ways. Meat and chicken can become grossly contaminated with pathogens found in feces or in the intestinal contents of animals when slaughterhouses fail to exercise reasonable care during the slaughtering process. Fruits and vegetables can become contaminated if sprayed or irrigated with water that is contaminated with animal or human sewage. Preparers or handlers of food and beverages can contaminate such products through improper hygiene, failing to wear proper clothing, or handling food when sick.

It is important to discuss your possible case with an attorney who is experienced in this area of law. The attorneys at Cannon & Dunphy, S.C. are experienced in this area and have successfully represented victims who have suffered from food poisoning and food borne diseases.