The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement on June 22, 2009 warning consumers about salmonella-contaminated pistachios that were packed and distributed from a plant in Anaheim. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, FDA issued a food-borne illness alert cautioning consumers not to eat California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards brands of pistachios repacked by Orca Distribution West Inc. located in Orange County. Orca reportedly received and repacked pistachios recalled by California-based Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc.
Federal officials believe that these pistachios may be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. The contamination was found after FDA inspectors visited Orca as part of their audit checks to follow up on Setton's product recall. Although Orca repacked and distributed products subject to Setton Pistachio's recall, Orca had not made a public announcement regarding the products, which is why the FDA issued the news alert to warn consumers. These recalled products were apparently distributed to retail locations in airports and hotels nationwide. The California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards brands of pistachios were packaged in clear 6-ounce flexible plastic Ziploc bags, UPC Number: 8 10826011162 with Sell By Dates of 7/30/09 and 8/30/09. Consumers who have bought these salmonella-tainted pistachios are urged not to eat them.
The most common signs and symptoms of salmonella infection includes nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal cramping or pain, diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, muscle pains and bloody stools. In many cases, salmonella infection could lead to several days of hospitalization. Bisnar | Chase has represented victims of salmonella poisoning who suffered long-term adverse effects as well.
Given the potential seriousness of a salmonella infection, I'd question why this Orange County food producer did not recall these salmonella-contaminated pistachios earlier while knowing that the California company where they came from had recalled them. If you or someone you love has been sickened as a result of consuming these pistachios, please contact experienced Orange County food-borne illness attorneys to find out more about your legal rights and options. The food producer that caused your food-borne illness could be held liable and you could be compensated for your medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization and other related expenses. If you suspect you have suffered salmonella poisoning from these pistachios, you would also be well-advised to file a report with the Orange County Health Care Agency. For more information, please visit their Web site (www.ocfoodinfo.com).
SLS Consulting