A Los Angeles area meat distributor has recalled about 35,000 pounds of ground beef because of food poisoning and E. coli contamination concerns. According to a CBS news report, the company is moving forward with the recall although no illnesses have been announced so far. The items included in the recall are bulk ground beef and ground beef patties sold by the South Gate Meat Company. These products were manufactured between June 7 and June 21 and shipped to restaurants in the Los Angeles area. The problem was discovered when the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials performed microbiological sampling on the products.

E. coli Symptoms and Effects

E. coli is a potentially lethal variety of bacteria, which in extreme cases can lead to kidney damage or even death. The most common symptoms of an E. coli infection include bloody diarrhea, fever, stomach ache and dehydration. Young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are most likely to get infected. In some cases an E. coli infection could lead to a condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which could result in kidney failure, kidney damage or even death. E. coli bacteria has the potential to cause lifelong health problems.

In this particular case, the meat was produced and shipped off to local Los Angeles restaurants, which means the possibility of someone getting ill here is a lot higher. So far there have not been any reports of illnesses. Company officials did the right thing by recalling all of the meat that is believed to be tainted. I trust USDA officials will conduct a detailed investigation of how and why this contamination occurred.

Liability Issues in Food Poisoning Cases

If the contamination was caused by lax procedures or failure to follow mandated food safety standards, then, the company can be held liable for injuries and illnesses that result. If you become ill or infected with E. coli bacteria after eating at a restaurant, you can file a claim against the restaurant operator as well. Food poisoning victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, diagnostic tests and cost of continued treatment, among other damages.

In such cases, victims or their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who has successfully handled food-borne illness cases on behalf of injured clients. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

Have you ever been a affected by food poisoning?

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