Food poisoning outbreaks are often frightening to consumers as they affect their everyday lives and often occur and affect a large number of people without warning. In the last several years, food poisoning outbreaks have seemingly increased, with more and more stories of serious illnesses and even deaths coming from outbreaks across the country. But what is the cause? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), imported food has become a major cause of outbreaks and serious illnesses..
As reported in The Huffington Post, the CDC has stated that imported foods were related to 38 major food-borne illness outbreaks from 2005 to 2010, with 17 of them occurring in 2009 and 2010 alone. Additionally, fish was the most commonly responsible for the outbreaks, with spices coming in second. Asia was linked to imported food outbreaks the most with 45 percent of the total illnesses related to food coming from the continent.
The CDC reports that the increase in imported food illnesses is tied to the trend of higher levels of food imports seen in recent years, with Asia now importing an especially large amount. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tests imported food for illnesses, but it is a very small percentage, allowing dangerous products to often slip past inspection.
Food poisoning is a common but serious problem throughout the U.S. From massive outbreaks to single incidents, these illnesses can severely affect a victim, causing pain and suffering, large medical bills, and even long-lasting complications if serious enough. The Santa Cruz food poisoning attorneys at Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys can aid you in finding proper compensation for your losses and holding the at-fault parties responsible. For more information, call our offices at (800) 900-0863.