Peanut Butter Recall Sickens Hundreds, Criminal Investigation Underway

Overview of the Peanut Butter Recall

The peanut butter recall, which has affected approximately 575 individuals across 43 states and resulted in eight deaths, is under intense scrutiny by government officials. The recall involves over 400 products, including cookies, cakes, and even pet foods.

Initial Outbreak and Recall

The initial recall was initiated on January 13 by the Peanut Corp. of America (PCA) from their Blakely, Georgia, manufacturing plant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified the presence of salmonella in the peanut butter during an investigation that lasted from January 9 to January 27. By the time the recall was announced, around 400 individuals had already fallen ill, with children making up at least half of the cases. Tragically, five fatalities had occurred by this point.

Expanded Recall and Continued Illnesses

On January 28, PCA voluntarily expanded the recall to include products manufactured over the previous two years, dating back to January 1, 2007. This expanded recall covered peanut butter shipped in sizes ranging from five pounds to 1,700 pounds to various food manufacturing companies nationwide. By this date, the number of affected individuals had risen to approximately 500 across nearly all 50 states.

Criminal Investigation

Following the expanded recall, the FDA announced on January 30 that it would launch a criminal investigation into the Blakely, Georgia plant and PCA. The investigation aims to uncover whether the company failed to test the peanut butter for salmonella, knowingly shipped contaminated products, or falsified records. On February 5, the FDA revealed that PCA had allegedly provided inconsistent information during the initial investigation.

Testimony and Ongoing Recalls

Despite PCA's repeated denials of any wrongdoing, Stewart Parnell, the owner and president of the company, was scheduled to testify before the House Energy and Commerce Committee on February 11. Meanwhile, the number of affected individuals continues to rise, and many products remain under recall. It is important to note that the reported cases may not include the potential hundreds of victims who did not report their salmonella poisonings.

Seeking Assistance for Salmonella Infections

Individuals affected by the salmonella outbreak are urged to seek medical attention if their symptoms worsen. Salmonella infections can sometimes lead to severe complications and even death. Additionally, victims should consider consulting a peanut butter recall attorney to explore the possibility of filing a lawsuit for monetary compensation.

Importance of Legal Action

Filing a lawsuit can increase the chances of receiving compensation for the damages endured during the salmonella outbreak. While salmonella infections often resolve on their own, severe cases can have long-lasting effects, making legal action a crucial step for affected individuals.

Interesting Statistics

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States each year. CDC
• The 2008-2009 peanut butter recall is one of the largest food recalls in U.S. history, affecting over 3,900 products from more than 200 companies. FDA

Conclusion

The peanut butter recall has had a devastating impact on hundreds of individuals and their families. As the criminal investigation continues, it is crucial for affected individuals to seek medical and legal assistance to address the consequences of this outbreak. The ongoing recalls and investigations highlight the importance of stringent food safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Sources:

• Chicago Tribune
• The New York Times
• FDA
• CDC