Peanut Butter Recall Expands: 30 Sick with Salmonella
Peanut butter lovers should put down the spoon because even more of everyone's favorite nut butter has been recalled due to salmonella.
The issue started with Trader Joe's brand peanut butter which has been traced to 30 cases of salmonella across 19 states. The recall has since expanded to include all Sunland, Inc. products made on the same equipment as the contaminated food.
That affects a lot of peanut butter brands and products, including Target's Archer Farms and Earth Balance, reports USA Today. It may seem like overkill but salmonella is a dangerous bacteria.
Children and the elderly are more susceptible to the illness but, as evidenced by the fact that most of the victims so far are under 10, this outbreak has disproportionately affected children.
That makes sense since peanut butter-based sandwiches are popular in elementary school lunches.
It was a good move for Sunland to recall all brands that could potentially be contaminated even if it brings down sales while the recall happens.
Companies have a responsibility to produce a safe product and food companies must meet safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration.
When a food producer realizes that one of their products causes illness, they have a responsibility to issue a voluntary recall. If they don't, the FDA will recall the product for them and institute some form of punishment.
While no one has gotten sick from brands other than Trader Joe's, now that Sunland knows the risk, they could be liable if they don't issue a recall and people get sick from other brands. Preemptively recalling the products helps protect them from bigger legal problems.
The company could still be responsible in a civil suit for any injuries the salmonella contamination caused for the families affected by the illness.
Failing to meet the standards for food safety opens the company to a negligence claim.
If you've been sickened by contaminated peanut butter or another unsafe food product, you have a right to sue for your injuries. To find out more call a lawyer who can help you sort out any legal claims you may have.
The recall affects many peanut butter products so check the full list before eating what's in your pantry. When in doubt, throw it out.
Related Resources:
- Trader Joe’s Recalls Peanut Butter Over Salmonella Fears (FindLaw's Common Law)
- Skippy Recall: Peanut Butter Recall Due to Salmonella Risk (FindLaw's Common Law)
- Man Attacked Women with Sword, Peanut Butter Sandwich (FindLaw's Legally Weird)