OFT Food Safety & Injury Lawyers

Is there a time limit to sue for food poisoning?

Yes. Every state has a different “statute of limitations," that outlines the timeframe to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long may result in losing the right to bring a case. That’s why it is always best to speak to a food poisoning lawyer sooner rather than later.

How do I report food poisoning?

Too many foodborne illnesses go unreported, which is a crucial step in making food safer. By reporting a foodborne illness, agencies and health departments become aware of potential outbreaks. This can lead to faster recalls and potentially fewer victims. To report a suspected foodborne illness, you can contact the health department on your own or talk to a doctor.

How is food poisoning diagnosed?

This largely depends on the circumstances or pathogen involved, but food poisoning is often diagnosed as “gastroenteritis.” This is a general term describing intestinal dysfunction marked by diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever. This type of diagnosis does not identify the cause or specific pathogen causing the infection.

What foods commonly cause foodborne illnesses?

Virtually any food product can cause illness. In recent years, fresh produce and fruit have been associated with some of the largest outbreaks. Other common causes of food poisoning are raw or undercooked meat and poultry, unpasteurized dairy products, unwashed produce, and food that has been improperly refrigerated.

What is cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination is the transfer of harmful bacteria from raw food to other ready-to-eat foods or to cutting boards, utensils, food handlers, or other surfaces. Cross-contamination is a very common root cause of food poisoning outbreaks.