Virginia families expect the food that they are eating to be safe for them to eat. In other words, people do not expect to get sick from the food they purchase. In many cases, people rely on companies to produce food for them. In particular, pre-packaged meals and snacks are popular in today’s busy society. People like the convenience of grabbing something quick and healthy for their families to eat while they are on the go.
However, people do need to be careful about the food they consume. Some companies fail to meet people’s expectations. Companies can skip food safety rules and put people at risk. For example, in a recent case, food products sold in Virginia and across the Southern United States had to be recalled. In this product recall, there is a fear of Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The problem was discovered after tests by a state agency suggested that the food may be tainted. In people with compromised immune systems — including the elderly, the sick and young children — Listeria can cause fatal infections and other serious illnesses.
In this recent recall, prepackaged food including salads, chili dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches and other food produced and distributed by SunBurst Foods under their “Fresh Bites” brand, and other labels, has been affected. All foods manufactured by the company, including all sell-by dates and sizes, have been recalled.
When people are injured as a result of the negligence of a company — including those that manufacture food — they may be entitled to damages. Under products liability laws, companies are responsible when their products are harmful or defective. In these cases, people may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damage caused by the defective product.
Source: Food Safety News, “North Carolina Firm Recalls Nearly 150 Food Products for Potential Listeria Contamination,” Oct. 12, 2014