Consumers Remain Wary Despite FDA's New Mandatory Food Recall Law
While President Obama has signed a new mandatory recall law, consumers should still remain vigilant to prevent foodborne illnesses from unsafe or contaminated foods such as spinach, eggs or peanut butter.
November 25, 2011
Consumers Remain Wary Despite FDA's New Mandatory Food Recall LawFood safety is often overlooked by many Americans. There are times when we forget to wash our vegetables, fully cook our poultry, or wash our cutting boards properly.
However, the importance of food safety cannot be undersold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates over 48 million Americans get sick from foodborne diseases each year. Of these 48 million, 128,000 require a stay in the hospital, and 3,000 Americans die each year as a result of their illness.
FDA Mandatory Recall Legislation
President Obama realized the risks involved with contaminated food and signed a new mandatory recall law. This new bill authorizes the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") to order mandatory recalls on any food it deems unsafe or potentially contaminated with a foodborne illness. Additionally, the law creates nationwide safety standards for all kinds of produce, which is also aimed at curtailing outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
U.S. News detailed the top 10 riskiest foods monitored by the FDA (the U.S. Department of Agriculture monitors meat and poultry). The top five are:
-Leafy greens such as spinach or romaine
-Eggs
-Fresh tuna
-Oysters
-Potatoes
However, everyone has a right to purchase food free of contamination, especially since foodborne diseases can cause severe symptoms and often result in substantial medical bills. Anyone who suffered from a foodborne disease should contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss his or her potential legal claims.
Loopholes in Mandatory Recalls
Although the new law is designed to protect consumers, there are obvious shortfalls with carrying out its purpose. First, many small food processors and farmers are exempt from the law's provisions as a major recall would be devastating to their business. Additionally, the law mandates inspections once every 3 years, but Congress did not increase the FDA's budget, making enforcement more difficult.
Essentially, while the government is trying its best to protect us from contaminated vegetables, meat and poultry, consumers must remain vigilant in protecting themselves as well. Wash hands, clean tables, fully cook food, and throw something away if it smells or looks tainted.
The symptoms of food poisoning can be severe and are often confused with the flu and other stomach illnesses. If you have been affected by a foodborne illness you should speak with a qualified personal injury attorney immediately, especially if the disease <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sonomalegal.com/PracticeAreas/Wrongful-Death.asp]resulted in the death[/url] of a loved one. People deserve to be compensated for their pain or loss, and an attorney can help you assert those rights.
Article provided by Law Offices of Joshua Katz and Bozman-Moss & Watson
Visit us at http://www.sonomalegal.com