For the third time since October, JBS Tolleson Inc. is expanding its beef recall. This brings the total salmonella beef recall to more than 12 million pounds. This outbreak has sickened almost 250 people since August.

About Salmonella

Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. The bacteria usually live in animal and human intestines and shed through feces. Consuming contaminated water or food spreads the infection to humans. Symptoms last two to seven days. Diarrhea may last up to 10 days, however, it may take several months before bowels return to normal. However, salmonella can develop into typhoid fever. This is a deadly disease. About 300 people get typhoid fever in the United States each year. About 22 million cases of typhoid fever and 200,000 related deaths occur worldwide each year.

Salmonella Beef Recall Expands

In the beginning of October, JBS launched the initial recall after the CDC confirmed 54 people in 12 states with salmonella. Then, more people kept reporting salmonella symptoms to the agency. However, traceback investigators found many contaminated ground beef products not part of the October recall. 

The October recall affected 254 people across 25 states. Of the 168 people who reported the salmonella beef infection, 59 had to be admitted to hospitals. That’s a 35% hospitalization rate.

Now, the recall has expanded to an additional 5 million pounds of beef. Public health officials say consumers should check their homes for the recalled ground beef and other “non-intact” raw beef. This includes dozens of specific JBS products. The FSIS has posted and is updating product lists and lists of specific retailers that received the recalled beef.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.

If Injured by the Outbreak

Food poisoning lawsuits play an important role in keeping food systems safe. These lawsuits hold negligent corporations accountable. Plus, it shows lawmakers that food safety is imperative.  When outbreaks caused by bacteria or viruses injure people, most of the time it is from a manufacturer being negligent. The company is fully aware of their potentially dangerous practices and do not correct it. Thus, customers’ lives are endangered.