The Cochran Firm Legal Blog

In June of this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture found salmonella in a milkshake powder marketed by the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative of Minnesota. This company makes and sells milk products to many other companies, who use them in various other food products.

This week, on July 7, Malt-O-Meal Co. voluntarily recalled its oatmeal and some other products that contain instant nonfat dry milk that may contain salmonella.

What is Salmonella?
The salmonella bacterium is found worldwide in humans and animals, both warm-blooded and cold-blooded. It causes disease such as typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever, and salmonellosis. It has no relation to the fish called salmon, but is named after the pathologist who discovered it, one Daniel Elmer Salmon.

Salmonella can be transmitted from animals to humans and from humans to animals. It can be ingested in food. You can carry it in your body without being ill and can transmit it to someone else who then may become ill. Salmonella infection causes diarrhea and other discomfort and for some groups can be dangerous - small children, older people, and people with impaired immunity.

The best way to dispose of salmonella bacteria in food is to heat the food until it is hot to its center, or subject it to ultraviolet radiation. Freezing has no effect.

Recalled Products
Mal-O-Meal is recalling its product called "Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal." It is sold in variety packs and cartons and has expiration dates between June 30, 2009 and October 28, 2010.

Also recalled are Meijer hot chocolate mix and some of Kroger's popcorn toppings You can see a complete list of the recalled products on the FDA site. The recalled oatmeal is sold nationwide under many brand names and some are:

• Flavorite
• Good 'n Hearty
• Mom's Best Natural
• Our Family
• Smart Menu

Defective products are often recalled after the FDA has found a contaminant or defect that could harm the public. Usually the manufacturer complies and voluntarily recalls the affected product until the problem is corrected. Sometimes the problem is in the product's labeling, where the FDA determines that insufficient information is presented to users.

If you have been harmed by a defective product and would like to know more about your legal position and options, please call or email our personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation.

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