Contaminated Cantaloupe Can Kill

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced the recall of cantaloupe responsible for at least 18 deaths and 100 illnesses since August due to Listeria bacteria.

One company, Fruit Fresh Up, Inc. of Depew, New York, is recalling approximately 4,800 individual packages of Fresh Cut Cantaloupe, and Cut Mixed Fruit Containing Cantaloupe, distributed in and around Buffalo. Although no illnesses have been reported related to Fruit Fresh Up processed cantaloupe, the recall was initiated due to potential contamination by this dangerous bacteria. Recalled products include Cantaloupe Chunks, Cantaloupe Slices, Gourmet Fruit Salad, Small Fruit Salad, Small and Large Fruit Salad with Pineapple, Fruit Salad with Kiwi, and Fruit Trays, according to the release says.
Symptoms of Listeria can be delayed for up to a month, therefore reports of deaths and illnesses are expected to increase. A big challenge that consumers currently face is determining which products may be contaminated. Many of the Cantaloupe-related products purchased are pre-cut by the store or a third-party, and therefore do not carry original labels.
Due to the complexities of the production chain for the fruit market, the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise any consumers suspecting contamination to contact stores directly to find out the source of the purchased cantaloupe.
Wyoming is already reporting another death, and Iowa is attributing a miscarriage to the outbreak. According to the CDC, the Jensen Farms-related cantaloupe outbreak has already spread across 20 states.
If you or a family member have suffered significant personal injuries or wrongful death as the result of a contaminated or defective product, contact the law office of Swartz & Swartz, P.C. Call (617) 742-1900  in the Boston area, or for clients in greater Massachusetts, New England, or other states across the U.S., call toll-free at 1-800-545-3732
By James A. Swartz of Swartz & Swartz, P.C. – Permalink