Hazelnuts Source of E. coli Outbreak Among Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan Residents
Hazelnuts sold nationwide have been determined to be the source of an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak that has resulted in at least 7 illnesses. Residents of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan fell ill with E. coli infections after eating the unshelled hazelnuts, which were sold in bulk bins at grocery stores, packaged individually, and with mixed nuts.
According to news releases issued by state health departments involved in the E. coli outbreak investigation, several outbreak victims were hospitalized due to the severity of their E. coli infections. All case-patients had illness onsets between Dec. 20 and Jan. 28.
The E. coli Outbreak Investigation
The public health investigation into the source of the outbreak revealed that the hazelnuts were sold by DeFranco and Sons, Inc. of Los Angeles, California, under the brand names Sunripe, George Packing, Firestorm Farms and Northwest Hazelnut. The E. coli-contaminated hazelnuts are believed to have been grown in Oregon, where most of the nation’s hazelnuts are grown.
E. coli O157:H7 Infection
E. coli O157:H7 is a bacterium that causes foodborne illness. Symptoms of E. coli infection include abdominal cramping and diarrhea, which can become bloody. In severe cases, E. coli can cause kidney failure or even death.
Contact the Marler Clark E. coli Attorneys
If you or a family member became ill with an E. coli infection after consuming contaminated hazelnuts and you’re interested in pursuing a legal claim, you can contact the Marler Clark E. coli attorneys for a free case evaluation. Marler Clark is the nation’s leading law firm representing victims of E. coli outbreaks and other foodborne illnesses. The law firm has represented thousands of victims of E. coli and other foodborne illness infections, and is the only firm in the nation with a practice focused exclusively on foodborne illness litigation. You can fill out the contact form or call toll-free at 866-770-2032. There is no cost to you.
