General Mills has expanded its voluntary recall of flour products after it was revealed that the flour has probably caused multiple illnesses among consumers across the United States.
The consumer food product manufacturer, which is based out of Minnesota, has come under scrutiny in the past month because dozens of people in at least 21 states got sick after consuming flour that was produced primarily at a plant in Kansas City, Missouri. Health inspectors have reportedly determined that the flour is the source of an E. coli bacteria strain.
E. coli is one of the most common bacterial causes of food poisoning, along with listeria and salmonella. The foodborne illness typically comes from improperly prepared or improperly stored food products. A person suffering from E. coli poisoning typically has to endure severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and high fever. In most cases, the symptoms dissipate within four days. However, children and the elderly, who are most susceptible to E. coli food poisoning, may have a harder time getting over their symptoms. In fact, according to public health experts from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the death rates can be as high as 16-35 percent for E. coli outbreaks that affect senior citizens.
The Large Scope of the General Mills Flour Recall
The affected products in the recent flour recall include General Mills brands like Gold Medal, Signature Kitchens, and Wondra.
In June, General Mills recalled approximately 10 million pounds of the potentially contaminated flour. Now the branded consumer foods manufacturer, which produces products that are sold through retail stores in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and everywhere else in the US, has expanded the already-massive recall to include flour that was made last year. The expanded recall comes after four more consumers came forward to report that they suffered serious illnesses after consuming the flour, including one person who reportedly tried to eat raw cookie dough.
Although the recall is being issued voluntarily by General Mills, the company has worked with the CDC to ensure that food-related illnesses among flour product consumers are minimized. It is also likely that General Mills is issuing the flour recall in order to prevent future product liability lawsuits from consumers of the contaminated food products.
For additional information about this product recall, view the Seattle Times article, “General Mills Expands Flour Recall after Outbreak of E. coli.”
If you or someone you know became ill or sustained an injury as a result of consuming a dangerous food product, you need to speak with a qualified product liability and personal injury lawyer immediately. The experienced New Jersey product liability and personal injury attorneys at Andres, Berger & Tran can help you get maximum compensation for your illness or injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation about your case.
