Listeria Outbreak Lawyers at Ethen Ostroff Law
The news of a listeria outbreak tied to Frank Brunckhorst Company, LLC’s Boar’s Head deli meats has devastated many families. With 10 lives lost and 59 others hospitalized across 19 states, it’s been a wake-up call for so many. The outbreak has heavily impacted states like New Jersey, New York, and Virginia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has described it as the worst listeriosis outbreak in years. If you or someone close to you has been affected, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Our listeria outbreak lawyers at Ethen Ostroff Law are here to help you understand your rights and take the next steps.
Boar's Head Listeria Outbreak
The listeria outbreak tied to Boar’s Head deli meats has affected families across 19 states. By the end of September 2024, the CDC confirmed 59 people had fallen ill and 10 lives were tragically lost. The outbreak has been traced to liverwurst made at Boar’s Head’s facility in Jarratt, Virginia. During an inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture found some concerning issues—mold, insects, and unsanitary equipment. The first cases began showing up in May 2024, and it’s been growing ever since.
States Hit by the Boar's Head Listeria Outbreak
The Boar’s Head listeria outbreak has impacted 19 states, with 59 confirmed cases of illness and 10 deaths. Here’s a look at the states that have been affected:
- New York (17 cases)
- Maryland (8 cases)
- New Jersey (6 cases)
- Virginia (4 cases)
- Florida (3 cases)
- Tennessee (1 case)
- New Mexico (1 case)
- South Carolina (2 cases)
- Illinois (1 case)
- Georgia (2 cases)
- Missouri (3 cases)
- Massachusetts (3 cases)
- Minnesota (1 case)
- Wisconsin (1 case)
- North Carolina (1 case)
- Indiana (1 case)
- Arizona (1 case)
- Louisiana (1 case)
- Pennsylvania (2 cases)
This outbreak has spread far, with cases affecting a wide range of states across the country.
Listeria and its Risks
Listeria is a bacteria that causes food poisoning and can spread easily through surfaces and equipment. Most healthy people won’t get very sick, but it can be serious for pregnant women, older adults, and newborns. Pregnant women may not feel much, but listeria can be deadly for their babies. Each year, about 1,600 people in the U.S. get listeriosis, and around 260 die from it, making listeria one of the leading causes of death from foodborne illnesses.
Signs of Listeria Infection
Listeria symptoms can vary, but here are the main things to watch for:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Loss of balance
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Stiff neck
If you’re experiencing any of these, especially several at once, it’s important to seek medical help right away.
Risks and Complications of Listeria
Listeria can be especially harmful to certain groups of people. Here are some of the serious risks:
- Death, particularly for the elderly, newborns, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
- Endocarditis
- Neurological damage
- Meningitis
- Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, or infections in newborns in pregnant Women
- Septicemia
Keep in mind:
- Symptoms can take up to 10 weeks to show.
- Listeria spreads easily on deli surfaces, hands, and food.
- Refrigeration doesn’t kill Listeria.
The CDC advises people at higher risk to avoid deli meats unless heated to 165°F.
Boar's Head's Response
Boar’s Head has taken action to improve food safety, including:
- Recalling affected products.
- Discontinuing liverwurst and closing the Jarratt, Virginia plant.
- Appointing a new Chief Food Safety Officer.
- Forming a Food Safety Council with experts.
- Implementing an enhanced food safety program across the company.
Boar's Head Deli Meats Recall
On July 26, 2024, the USDA issued a recall for Boar’s Head liverwurst and other deli meats after a test by the Maryland Department of Health found listeria contamination. The initial recall covered over 200,000 pounds of products made between June 11 and July 17, 2024. By July 30, the recall expanded to 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat meats and poultry, produced at Boar’s Head’s Jarratt, Virginia facility from May 10 to July 29, 2024, and shipped across the country.
Recalled Boar's Head Products
Several Boar’s Head and Old Country branded deli meats are part of the listeria recall for products purchased before July 31, 2024. Some of the affected items include:
- All-Natural Applewood Smoked Uncured Ham
- Beef Bologna
- Canadian Style Uncured Bacon
- Gourmet Pepper Brand Ham
- Liverwurst Pate
- Maple Glazed Roast Pork Loin
- Sweet Slice Smoked Uncured Ham
- Old Country Brand Beechwood Smoked Ham
- Old Country Brand Tavern Ham
- Strassburger Brand Liverwurst
- Virginia Ham
This list isn’t exhaustive, as all deli products, including prepackaged ones, are affected. To check if your Boar’s Head products are part of the recall, look for the establishment numbers “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on the packaging.
How to Check for Recalled Boar's Head Products
To see if your Boar’s Head product is recalled, do the following:
- Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on the label.
- Check the USDA and CDC websites for recall updates.
- Review the list of affected items, including liverwurst, ham, and bacon from June 11 to July 17, 2024.
- Check the sell-by dates for liverwurst between July 25 and August 30, 2024.
Boar's Head Listeria Outbreak Summary
As of September 25, 2024, the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak has led to:
- 10 deaths and 59 hospitalizations
- Over 7 million pounds of deli meats and poultry recalled
- Permanent discontinuation of liverwurst and plant closure in Jarratt, Virginia
- Health violations at the plant, including mold, insects, and blood on the floor
- The outbreak, linked to Listeria monocytogenes, was first reported in July 2024, with some cases starting in May.
- The CDC recommends checking labels for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” and sell-by dates into October 2024.
What to Do If You've Eaten Recalled Boar's Head Products
If you’ve eaten any recalled Boar’s Head deli meats, here’s what you should do to protect your health:
- Look for establishment numbers “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on your product labels to confirm it’s part of the recall.
- Return or discard any affected products.
- Clean your fridge and any surfaces the meat touched to prevent contamination.
- Watch for symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, and confusion, which can appear up to 10 weeks later.
- Contact a doctor if you experience symptoms, especially if you’re pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised.
Boar's Head Faces Multiple Lawsuits Over Listeria Outbreak
Several lawsuits have been filed against Boar’s Head due to the listeria outbreak tied to its deli meats:
- Wrongful Death Lawsuit: The family of Otis Adams Jr. filed a wrongful death lawsuit, claiming he contracted listeria after eating Boar’s Head ham. He died on May 5, 2024, after being diagnosed with listeriosis.
- Class Action Lawsuit: Boar’s Head settled a class action lawsuit filed by Rita Torres, who accused the company of misleading consumers about contamination risks. The details of the settlement are not public.
- Multi-Million Dollar Lawsuit: Barbara Schmidt from Virginia sued after falling ill from Boar’s Head liverwurst, claiming the company hid contamination information from the public.
- Additional Lawsuits: Other individuals have sued after suffering listeriosis from Boar’s Head products, including Ashley Solberg from Minnesota, Sue Fleming from Missouri, and Gunter Morgenstein, whose family claimed his death was caused by contaminated liverwurst.
Legal Claims in Boar's Head Listeria Lawsuits
The cases against Boar’s Head raise significant concerns about the company’s food safety policies, emphasizing the major health risks and legal accountability that they now face. Here are the key legal claims:
- Breach of Warranty: Boar’s Head is accused of selling contaminated products without proper warnings, making them unsafe to eat.
- Fraudulent Concealment: The company allegedly hid information about unsanitary conditions at its Virginia plant, like mold and insects.
- Inadequate Recall Process: Plaintiffs claim the recall was poorly managed, leaving many consumers unaware of the contamination.
- Negligence: Boar’s Head is accused of failing to maintain proper safety and hygiene standards, leading to the listeria outbreak.
- Personal Injuries and Wrongful Death: Some lawsuits claim people got seriously sick or died from listeria after consuming Boar’s Head products.
- Violation of Consumer Protection Laws: The company is said to have misled consumers about the safety of its products and failed to warn them about the listeria risk.
- Compensation Sought: Victims are seeking compensation for medical costs and other expenses, with some also asking for punitive damages.
Steps for Filing a Boar's Head Listeria Recall Lawsuit
If you’re thinking about suing Boar’s Head over the listeria outbreak, taking legal action can help you get compensation and hold the company responsible. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
- Check if you or a loved one are eligible by confirming if you consumed the recalled deli meat and experienced serious health issues.
- Gather proof, such as receipts, medical records, and any communication with healthcare providers.
- Consult a lawyer from Ethen Ostroff Law who specializes in foodborne illnesses or product liability for a free consultation.
- If you move forward, your listeria attorney will help file a complaint detailing your claims and the damages you’re seeking.
- Consider joining a class action lawsuit, which may simplify the process and increase your chances of compensation.
- Stay in touch with your listeria lawyer as the case progresses and follow their guidance on important steps.
- Keep up to date with new developments regarding the outbreak and lawsuits to make informed decisions.
Key Things to Keep in Mind When Filing a Lawsuit
If you’re considering a lawsuit due to the 2024 Boar’s Head recall, here are a few important things to know:
- Each state has a deadline, called the statute of limitations, for filing lawsuits. It’s important to file on time to secure your chance for compensation.
- Many lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t need to pay unless you win the case.
Eligibility to File a Boar's Head Recall Lawsuit
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Boar’s Head if you or a loved one:
- Consumed recalled Boar’s Head deli meat
- Experienced severe or life-threatening illness
- Required hospitalization due to listeria-related symptoms
- Died from a listeria infection linked to the outbreak
Common Compensations in Boar's Head Lawsuits
In Boar’s Head listeria lawsuits, plaintiffs often seek compensation for:
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Medical expenses for hospital bills and treatments
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
- Punitive damages to hold Boar’s Head accountable for negligence
- Wrongful death for families who lost loved ones due to the outbreak.
Importance of a Listeria Lawyer
Having a listeria lawyer can make a big difference after a listeria outbreak. Here’s why:
- Listeria outbreak lawyers are experts in the law and can guide you through the complexities of your case.
- They’ll assess your situation and help you understand the potential outcomes.
- Boar’s Head listeria outbreak lawyers assist in gathering key documents like medical records and purchase receipts to support your case.
- Listeria outbreak lawyers are skilled at negotiating for fair compensation.
- With a listeria lawyer handling the legal details, you can focus on your recovery.
- Listeria outbreak lawyers ensure you receive all you’re entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In short, a listeria attorney is a crucial ally in getting the compensation you deserve.
Ethen Ostroff Law's Listeria Outbreak Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been affected by the listeria outbreak in Philadelphia or elsewhere, now is the time to act. At Ethen Ostroff Law, we’ll help you get compensation and hold those responsible accountable. Reach out to us for a free consultation with one of our listeria outbreak lawyers. Let’s make sure your voice is heard, and your rights are protected.
Boar's Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit FAQs
Can you sue for a listeria outbreak?
Yes, if you were affected by a listeria outbreak, you may be able to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I sue Boar's Head for listeria?
Yes, if you or a loved one got sick from listeria after eating Boar’s Head products, you may have a case for compensation.
What is the lawsuit against the Boar's Head outbreak?
The lawsuit involves claims against Boar’s Head for selling contaminated deli meats linked to a listeria outbreak, including negligence, failure to warn consumers, and poor recall practices.
Is there a lawsuit for listeria in Boar's Head 2024?
Yes, there are active lawsuits in 2024 related to the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak, with people seeking compensation for illnesses caused by the contaminated products.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a Boar's Head lawsuit?
The statute of limitations varies by state, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years from the injury or diagnosis. It’s important to act quickly and consult with one of Ethen Ostroff Law‘s listeria outbreak lawyers to protect your rights.
