In an unprecedented move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled powdered kratom products for potential salmonella contamination. According to a report in The Washington Post, the herbal supplements sold in capsule form by a Las Vegas company, have been contaminated with salmonella bacteria. The recall involves powdered kratom products that were manufactured, packed and processed by Triangle Pharmanaturals. The FDA said the company did not cooperate with the agency’s request for a voluntary recall. This was the first ever FDA recall of a contaminated food item. Dietary supplements are considered “foods” under federal law.
The Controversy Over Kratom
Kratom is a botanical from Southeast Asia, which is becoming increasingly popular. Advocates praise it as a readily available pain remedy that is safer than traditional opioids. They also say it is an effective addiction withdrawal aid and a recreational tonic. But, the FDA has said kratom is a dangerous and unregulated death, which could result in opioid-like abuse and death. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is looking into whether to place kratom, which comes from a leafy tree, in the same category as illegal drugs such as heroin.
FDA officials have said that while they are concerned about the safety and efficacy of kratom products, this particular recall has to do strictly with the salmonella contamination. The agency has said two samples of kratom products manufactured by Triangle tested positive for salmonella. The FDA said the company denied officials access to its records.
Salmonella Effects
The most common symptoms of salmonella infection include nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and headache. People with salmonellosis can spread the infection from several days to several weeks after they’ve been infected, even if their symptoms have disappeared or they’ve been treated with antibiotics. People who are at risk for serious complications from a salmonella infection include young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Salmonellosis symptoms can take from six to 72 hours to start after someone ingests the bacteria. In most people, the illness lasts for four to seven days after symptoms begin.
If you have been sickened by a food or herbal product, you may be able to seek compensation from the manufacturer for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization and pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to help you secure fair compensation for your losses.
