Happy Apple Company has issued a recall of Kroger Caramel apples produced by Happy Apple with the best use by date between September 15th and November 18th, 2014. These caramel apples may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and have been associated with an outbreak of Listeria infections (listeriosis) that has sickened at least 32 people in 11 states.
Kroger brand caramel apples produced by Happy Apple Company are sold in single packs and three packs, all with a best-use-by date on the front of the label. They were distributed to the following states: Arizona, Alaska, Kansas, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
This is an expansion of an earlier Happy Apple caramel apples recall. At least some of the apples used for these products were supplied by Bidart Brothers, whose apples have been linked to the caramel apple listeriosis outbreak.
Lawsuit for Illness and Death from Kroger Caramel Apples
There are many questions that need answering.
How did the apples get contaminated with Listeria bacteria?
Were the apples cleaned and processed in a sanitary facility?
What testing was done on the apples to make sure they were not tainted with this deadly pathogen?
When did the companies know there was a risk of Listeria contamination?
People sickened in the outbreak and the families of those who did not survive, have the right to sue all responsible companies. Our lawyers can help you file a lawsuit to seek:
- answers to these and other questions and
- compensation for personal injury or wrongful death.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is one of the most dangerous foodborne pathogens in the United States. It can cause severe, often fatal, infections. Newborn babies, older adults and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk for contracting a fatal infection. In pregnant women, the bacteria can migrate to the placenta and infect the baby prior to birth. This can cause miscarriages, stillbirths and life-threatening illnesses after birth. In the current outbreak:
Ten illnesses have been associated with a pregnancy (occurred in a pregnant woman or her newborn baby). One fetal loss has been reported (CDC).
Healthy children were also sickened in this outbreak. Three cases of Listeria meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain) occurred among otherwise healthy children aged 5–15 years. Meningitis is a severe illness that is often fatal.
Can I Get a Free Listeria Case Review?
Yes, you can talk to our lawyers for free. Attorney Fred Pritzker is our lead Listeria lawyers for these cases. He has won millions for people sickened by Listeria food poisoning and for families who lost loved ones. Request your free consultation: use our free consultation form (click here now) or call 1-888-377-8900.