When you sit down to enjoy a meal at a restaurant or prepare food purchased from a grocery store, the last thing you expect is to fall seriously ill. Unfortunately, food poisoning affects millions of Americans each year, sometimes with severe consequences. If you or a loved one suffered food poisoning due to contaminated food products or negligent food handling practices, you need a skilled food poisoning lawyer on your side.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, our experienced legal team is dedicated to holding negligent food producers, distributors, and restaurants accountable for the harm they cause. Contact us today to discuss your case and options for financial recovery.
Why Choose Cory Watson Attorneys for Your Food Poisoning Case
Cory Watson Attorneys brings over 40 years of experience advocating for injury victims, including those harmed by contaminated food. Our proven track record in product liability cases, including foodborne illness claims, sets us apart.
We have successfully litigated against some of the world’s most powerful companies, recovering more than $4 Billion for our clients. Our team is skilled at handling complex legal processes, investigating the source of contamination, and building a strong case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Choosing Cory Watson Attorneys means choosing a team with a national reach and a deep understanding of food poisoning cases. Whether you were exposed to dangerous bacteria at a local restaurant or a grocery store, our lawyers have the experience to handle your case from start to finish.
We know that dealing with food poisoning can overwhelm you, and we are committed to making the legal process as stress-free as possible. Our 100% Hassle-Free Guarantee ensures that you won’t pay unless we win your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
At Cory Watson, we are not bound by convention; we take innovative approaches to each case and are not afraid to challenge big corporations. Our core values—honesty, integrity, respect, and a commitment to our clients—drive everything we do. We work tirelessly to hold negligent food producers accountable and provide compassionate legal support to those suffering from foodborne illnesses.
With our experienced team by your side, you can trust that we will fight to get you the best possible outcome for your food poisoning claim.
Understanding Food Poisoning Cases
Food poisoning occurs when you consume food or beverages contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. While many cases of food poisoning resolve on their own within a few days, some can lead to severe illness, hospitalization, and even long-term health complications.
Common causes of food poisoning include:
- Bacterial contamination (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria)
- Viral infections (e.g., Norovirus, Hepatitis A)
- Parasitic infections (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
- Toxins (e.g., poisonous mushrooms, certain types of fish)
When negligence in food handling, preparation, or distribution causes food poisoning, victims may have grounds for legal action. Our food poisoning lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Recent Food Poisoning Outbreaks
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 48 million people each year are struck by a foodborne illness. Among those sickened, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die.
Outbreaks of food poisoning across the United States have highlighted the ongoing dangers of contaminated food products. Here are some of the most notable recent cases that underscore the importance of food safety vigilance
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers
A multistate outbreak of Salmonella Africana and Salmonella Braenderup infections linked to cucumbers affected 551 people across 31 states, resulting in 155 hospitalizations.
The cucumbers were traced back to Bedner Growers, Inc., and Thomas Produce Company in Florida, where contaminated canal water contained the Salmonella strains responsible for the illnesses.
Listeria Outbreak from Queso Fresco and Cotija Cheese
The FDA recently closed an investigation into Listeria Monocytogenes linked to queso fresco and cotija cheese produced by Rizo Lopez Foods, Inc. So far, 26 victims across 11 states have been identified, including two deaths, with 23 of the affected individuals requiring hospitalizations.
The cheeses were sold under several brand names at retail establishments, including Albertsons, Safeway, Costco, Sprouts, Tom Thumb, and Vons.
E. coli in Organic Walnuts
An outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 linked to organic walnuts from Gibson Farms, Inc. sickened 13 people in California and Washington, with seven requiring hospitalizations. The walnuts were sold in bulk bins at natural food stores across several states.
Listeria in Boar's Head Deli Meat
Boars Head issued a recall of millions of its deli meats after 57 people across 18 states were hospitalized and nine died when they contracted listeria after consuming the products. The Boar’s Head deli meat recall was initiated in July 2024, and more illnesses may emerge through the fall as it can take two months for listeria symptoms to present.
When to Seek Legal Help for Food Poisoning
Not all cases of food poisoning require legal action.
However, if you experience any of the following, consult a food poisoning lawyer:
- Severe illness requiring hospitalization
- Long-term health complications
- Significant medical expenses
- Lost wages or income due to illness
- Confirmed contamination through laboratory testing
If you're unsure whether you have a case, our experienced attorneys at Cory Watson can evaluate your situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Proving Your Food Poisoning Case
Successfully pursuing a food poisoning claim requires proving several key elements:
- Contamination: We must demonstrate that the food you consumed was contaminated. This often involves laboratory testing of stool samples to identify the specific pathogen responsible for your illness.
- Causation: We must establish a clear link between the contaminated food and your illness. This may involve showing that you consumed the food within a specific timeframe before becoming ill and that your symptoms are consistent with the identified pathogen.
- Damages: We must provide evidence of the harm you've suffered, including medical records, bills, and documentation of lost wages.
- Source: Identifying the source of the contaminated food is crucial. This could be a restaurant, grocery store, food manufacturer, or distributor.
Identifying the Source of Contamination
One of the most critical steps in a food poisoning case is identifying the source of contamination. To build a successful claim, we must prove that the contaminated food you consumed caused your illness. This typically involves:
Seeking Medical Attention
See a doctor immediately if you suspect food poisoning. A healthcare professional will perform the necessary tests, such as stool samples, to confirm the presence of specific pathogens.
If laboratory testing confirms a reportable pathogen, your provider should report illnesses to the health department. Early diagnosis not only aids your recovery but also provides essential evidence for your claim.
Health Department Investigation
Healthcare providers should report certain pathogens to local health departments. But if you have a confirmed diagnosis, you can also report your illness to your local health department.
Health department officials play a role in investigating reports of food poisoning, identifying outbreaks, and helping to determine a cause. They may inspect the restaurant or food supplier, trace the contamination source, and test samples from affected individuals. Their findings can support your case.
Collecting Evidence
Preserve any remaining food, packaging, or receipts related to the contaminated meal. Document your symptoms, medical treatments, and any correspondence with the food provider or health department.
Connecting with a Food Poisoning Lawyer
The legal complexities of food poisoning claims vary by state. An experienced lawyer can help navigate these laws, gather evidence, and build a strong case for compensation. Our food poisoning lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys have extensive experience gathering and presenting the evidence necessary to build a strong case on your behalf.
Legal Considerations in Food Poisoning Cases
Food poisoning cases can be complex, and laws may vary depending on your state. Some important legal considerations include:
Product Liability vs. Negligence
In many states, food poisoning cases are treated as product liability claims rather than negligence cases. This means that we may only need to prove that the food you consumed was contaminated and caused your illness without necessarily proving negligence in food handling or preparation.
Strict Liability
Some states apply strict liability in food poisoning cases. Under strict liability, food sellers can be held responsible for injuries caused by their products, regardless of whether they were negligent or knew about the contamination.
Statute of Limitations
Each state has a specific timeframe for filing a food poisoning lawsuit. Failing to do so could result in losing your opportunity to pursue compensation through the civil courts. It's crucial to consult a food poisoning lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss important deadlines.
Class Action Lawsuits
Widespread food contamination affecting multiple individuals may call for a class action lawsuit. Our attorneys at Cory Watson have extensive experience in handling complex class action cases and can advise you on whether this approach is suitable for your situation.
Common Food Poisoning Pathogens and Their Risks
Several pathogens are commonly linked to food poisoning cases. Understanding the risks associated with these contaminants can help illustrate the severity of your illness and the need for legal action.
Salmonella:
- Symptoms: Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps
- Complications: Some cases can lead to long-term complications like reactive arthritis
- Onset: 6 hours to 6 days after exposure
- Common sources: Raw or undercooked poultry, eggs, unpasteurized milk
E. coli:
- Symptoms: Severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting
- Complications: Certain strains can cause life-threatening conditions like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure
- Onset: 3-4 days after exposure
- Common sources: Undercooked ground beef, raw milk, contaminated produce
Listeria:
- Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea (can be severe in pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals)
- Complications: Can cause severe complications, including miscarriages, stillbirths, and meningitis
- Onset: 1-4 weeks after exposure
- Common sources: Deli meats, soft cheeses, raw sprouts
Norovirus:
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
- Complications: Can be more severe in young children and the elderly
- Onset: 12-48 hours after exposure
- Common sources: Contaminated food or water, contact with infected individuals
Campylobacter:
- Symptoms: Diarrhea (often bloody), fever, abdominal cramps
- Complications: In rare cases, it can cause long-term complications like Guillain-Barré syndrome, a serious condition affecting the nervous system
- Onset: 2-5 days after exposure
- Common sources: Undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk
Identifying the specific pathogen responsible for your illness can help establish a clear link between the contaminated food and your symptoms, strengthening your legal case.
Compensation in Food Poisoning Cases
If you've been a victim of food poisoning, our food poisoning lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys will fight to secure compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, and ongoing treatment
- Lost Wages or Income: Compensation for time missed from work due to illness
- Pain and Suffering: For physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the illness
- Long-term Health Effects: If food poisoning leads to chronic health issues
- Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where food poisoning results in death
The amount of compensation you may receive depends on various factors, including the severity of your illness, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence in your case. Our experienced attorneys will work diligently to maximize your compensation and ensure that all aspects of your suffering are accounted for.
Contact the Food Poisoning Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has suffered from food poisoning due to contaminated food products or negligent food handling practices, don't wait to seek legal help. The experienced food poisoning lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
We understand the challenges you're facing, and we can guide you through every step of the legal process. We’ll advocate for your best interests, from investigating your case to negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court.
Don't let the negligent actions of food producers, distributors, or restaurants go unchallenged. Contact Cory Watson Attorneys today at (866) 615-9297 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Remember, time is of the essence in food poisoning cases. The sooner you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and build a strong case on your behalf. Trust Cory Watson Attorneys to advocate for you in the fight for justice and fair compensation.