West Palm Beach 5/5/2011 9:56:58 PM
News / Health & Wellness

Salmonella discoveries lead to food recalls

By: Daun Lee

The presence of salmonella has caused two major recalls, one in the US and another in the Philippines. In the United Sates grape tomatoes were recalled after a Florida packaging plant detected the contamination, and in the Philippines Maggi noodles, manufactured by Nestle, were recalled, both products were found to contain salmonella.

The grape tomato recall included pre-made salads distributed by two different growers, to Safeway and Trader Joe’s, initially. The recall had to be extended and now includes products in Albertson’s, Riley’s, Sam’s Club, Savemart and Wal-mart.

The Maggi noodle recall involves the chicken and beef varieties produced by Nestle Philippines. Nestle maintains the noodles are safe to eat if cooked properly.

No one has fallen ill from either of the two salmonella outbreaks. When ingested, salmonella can cause intestinal discomfort, vomiting and fever. Salmonella can be dangerous to people with compromised health or immune systems. In very rare occasions, food poisoning can lead to hospitalization.

Recalls are intended to protect the public from potential dangers but sometimes people can become ill if they aren’t aware of the recall or consumed the contaminated foods before salmonella detection. The costs related to their compromised health can add up quickly and may require the employ of an accident lawyer to recoup their losses.

The FDA tries to ensure the foods we eat are safe but there are occasion in which contaminated food products reach the markets. A person who becomes ill from these tainted foods can seek the advice of an accident lawyer to determine if they qualify for compensation.