Yellowfin Tuna Recalled After Sushi Salmonella Outbreak
The cause behind the countrywide reports of sushi-related salmonella poisoning might have finally been found. A Cupertino, Calif. company has issued a voluntary recall of yellowfin tuna.
Moon Marine USA Corporation is flagging 59,000 pounds of frozen yellowfin tuna for the recall. The salmonella outbreak has sickened 116 people across 20 states. No deaths have been reported, but 12 people have been hospitalized, CBS News reports.
But which states have been affected so far by the salmonella outbreak?
The Food and Drug Administration has gotten reports of poisoning in Alabama (2), Arkansas (1), Connecticut (5), District of Columbia (2), Florida (1), Georgia (5), Illinois (10), Louisiana (2), Maryland (11), Massachusetts (8), Mississippi (1), Missouri (2), New Jersey (7), New York (24), North Carolina (2), Pennsylvania (5), Rhode Island (5), South Carolina (3), Texas (3), Virginia (5), and Wisconsin (12).
The recalled frozen yellowfin is sold to restaurants and grocery stores nationwide under the name "Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA." In addition to sushi, yellowfin is often used in ceviche, sashimi and other raw dishes.
Salmonella poisoning can last between four to seven days. Symptoms include fever, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Most people can recover without treatment. But in cases where the diarrhea is severe, hospitalization may be required. In some people, long-term effects such as joint pain, eye irritation, and painful urination can develop.
There's no word yet of any legal action, but sushi salmonella poisoning on this scale could serve as the basis for a products liability lawsuit. Under this cause of action, the manufacturer and any retailers and restaurants that sold the recalled yellowfin tuna could be liable for damages.
Related Resources:
- Cupertino Company Issues Tuna Recall After Salmonella Outbreak in 20 States (San Jose Mercury News)
- Food Poisoning: What Are Your Rights? (FindLaw's Injured)
- Food Poisoning and the Law (FindLaw)