The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that as of February 13, 2013, a total of 18 persons across 5 states have been infected with Salmonella Typhimurium in a food poisoning outbreak linked to consuming ground beef. The suspect ground beef was distributed by Jouni Meats, Inc. and Gab Halal Foods, and has been recalled by both companies.
About the Outbreak- According to the CDC, seven of the outbreak victims reported eating at the same Michigan restaurant just prior to becoming ill with food poisoning symptoms. These victims also reported eating a raw beef Kibbeh served by the restaurant. As part of the outbreak investigation, public health officials determined that ground beef products, produced by Jouni Meats, Inc. and Gab Halal Foods, were the likely food sources linked to the outbreak.
The number of outbreak cases by state was reported as follows: Arizona (1), Iowa (1), Illinois (2), Michigan (9), and Wisconsin (5). Reported illness onset dates ranged from December 9, 2012, to January 7, 2013. Approximately 50% of those sickened in the outbreak required hospitalization as a result of their food poisoning symptoms.
About the Raw Beef Recall - On January 24, 2013, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) reported that Jouni Meats, of Sterling Heights, Michigan, had recalled approximately 500 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Typhimurium.
The Jouni Meats ground beef products subject to recall include:
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Various size packages of ground beef produced between Dec. 4, 2012, and Dec. 9, 2012, and distributed to a restaurant in Macomb County, Michigan, and sold directly to consumers at Jouni Meats, Inc. These products were sold without a label.
In a second recall linked to the outbreak, FSIS announced on January 25, 2013, that Gab Halal Foods, of Troy, Michigan had recalled approximately 550 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Typhimurium.
The Gab Halal products subject to recall include:
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Various size bags of ground beef, wrapped in clear plastic, These products were produced between Dec. 4, 2012, and Dec. 10, 2012, and distributed to a restaurant in Macomb County, Mich., and sold directly to consumers at Gab Halal Foods. These products were sold without a label.
The FDA has cautioned consumers not to eat the recalled meat and to also check at home freezers for the recalled products.
Salmonella Food Poisoning Symptoms and Diagnosis - The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to suffer severe illness.
Salmonella food poisoning symptoms may include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and joint pain. Symptoms usually appear within 12-72 hours after the ingestion of contaminated food.
In severe cases, Salmonella may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and other body sites. This can result in death, unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
A stool culture may confirm Salmonella food poisoning. If you suspect that you have contracted Salmonella or are experiencing food poisoning symptoms, contact your healthcare professional. He or she can order a stool culture to confirm Salmonella infection. A stool culture can also help link your illness to a specific outbreak and support a food poisoning lawsuit should you wish to seek compensation for your injuries.
Contact The Law Firm of Eric H. Weinberg for a Free Salmonella Lawsuit Evaluation
The Law Firm of Eric H. Weinberg has helped victims of food poisoning outbreak nationwide. We are ready to help you. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with salmonellosis, are awaiting medical confirmation of infection, or have a question regarding your legal rights you can request a free Food Poisoning Lawsuit Evaluation, or call us toll free at 877-934-6274. Our phones are answered 24/7.
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