Product Liability News

Spinach FDA Warning On Serious Foodborne E.coli O157:H7 Outbreak

One Death and Multiple Hospitalizations in Several States

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing an alert to consumers about an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in multiple states that may be associated with the consumption of produce. To date, preliminary epidemiological evidence suggests that bagged fresh spinach may be a possible cause of this outbreak.

Based on the current information, FDA advises that consumers not eat bagged fresh spinach at this time. Individuals who believe they may have experienced symptoms of illness after consuming bagged spinach are urged to contact their health care provider.

“Given the severity of this illness and the seriousness of the outbreak, FDA believes that a warning to consumers is needed. We are working closely with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local agencies to determine the cause and scope of the problem,” said Dr. Robert Brackett, Director of FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN).

E. coli O157:H7 causes diarrhea, often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death. To date, 50 cases of illness have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including 8 cases of HUS and one death.

At this time, the investigation is ongoing and states that have reported illnesses to date include: Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Wisconsin.

FDA will keep consumers informed of the investigation as more information becomes available.

Contact our Virginia Product Liability Lawyer Now!

	Did You Know?
	2.2 million “SMC” brand oscillating floor fans can be dangerous Floor fans by SMC Marketing Corp. and Home Depot U.S.A., Inc. The recall includes 18-inch, pedestal floor fans with model number SR-18 or SP-18. The damage to the cord can result in a short circuit and possible ignition of the plastic case, posing a fire hazard. CPSC is aware of 31 incidents in which the cord on these fans was damaged, which resulted in smoke and fires. At least nine of these incidents resulted in substantial property damage.