Toxic Beetle Appearing in Salads

Recently, reports of poisonous beetles appearing in bagged salads have been making headlines in the U.S. and Canada. The beetle, which is colored black, yellow and red, is known as the Iron Cross Blister Beetle and is common to Arizona and California. Although consuming one would not necessarily be fatal, it would likely cause significant stomach pains and discomfort. In addition, the beetle causes skin to blister upon touch.

This is not the first time produce has been linked to health concerns. A few years ago, lettuce from a major distributor was recalled due to listeria. Cyclospora contaminated bagged salad in 2013, sickening people in 16 states. A nationwide spinach recall was instituted several years ago when it was found that spinach from a major California supplier was tainted with salmonella.

Illnesses resulting from eating contaminated foods can be serious. In addition to an upset stomach, consuming tainted food can result in days missed from work, and depending on the severity of the illness, expensive hospital bills and other out of pocket expenses. In extreme cases, death can even result.

To successfully bring suit for food poisoning, you must be able to prove that the food was contaminated, and that the contamination caused you to become sick. There are three theories an individual may bring suit under:

• Negligence

• Strict Products Liability

• Breach of Warranty

If you have consumed a product that has made you ill, contact an experienced attorney who is knowledgeable about food product liability matters. Call the attorneys at Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP at (332)239-1601.