Understanding Food Recalls and Product Liability Lawsuits

Food recall lawsuits are critical for protecting consumer health and holding food manufacturers accountable for their products’ safety. When contaminated or mislabeled food items pose a risk to public health, individuals affected by such products can seek legal compensation. To offer guidance and insight, our team of experienced lawyers has outlined what to expect when filing a product liability lawsuit regarding food recalls.

What Are Food Recalls?

Food recalls occur when there is evidence or suspicion that a food product may pose a health or safety risk to consumers. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), monitor food safety and issue recalls when necessary. During a recall, these regulatory bodies advise consumers to discontinue using the affected product and dispose of it. Companies typically issue a refund for recalled products.

Common Risks:

• Bacterial, viral, or fungal contamination
• Undeclared allergens
• Foreign objects (hair, glass, plastic, nails, etc.)
• Mislabeling

Grounds for Food Recall Lawsuits

Individuals who suffer harm or illness from consuming contaminated or defective food products can file a food product liability lawsuit. To build a successful case, plaintiffs must demonstrate that they ingested the recalled product and experienced injuries as a direct result.

Common Grounds:

• Foodborne illnesses (Norovirus, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, etc.)
• Allergic reactions
• Physical injuries
• Long-term health complications

The Legal Process

When pursuing a food recall lawsuit, plaintiffs typically follow several legal steps. These steps involve gathering evidence, such as medical records and product packaging, to establish a direct link between the consumption of the recalled food and the resulting harm. Plaintiffs may also need to prove that the food manufacturer or distributor was negligent, breached their duty of care, or engaged in fraudulent practices. To navigate this complex legal process effectively, plaintiffs should consult with experienced attorneys specializing in product liability and food safety, such as our Cape Cod law firms.

Consult With Our Product Liability Lawsuit Experts

A food product liability lawsuit is vital in ensuring consumer safety and seeking justice for those harmed by defective or contaminated food products. Our team at the Law Offices of John C. Manoog has the knowledge and expertise to represent clients in product liability cases and help them receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, or read our blog for more legal resources.