Back in April of this year, 65 people became ill after eating at Bullock’s restaurant in Durham, NC. At that time, the source of the salmonella food poisoning was not apparent; now, it has been determined that the cause of the outbreak was likely commercially manufactured egg whites used by the restaurant in making meringue. This conclusion was recently announce by the Durham County Health Department following an investigation in to the salmonella outbreak.
A press release recently by the health department stated that most likely, the outbreak was not due to improper food handling practices by the staff at the restaurant, nor was contaminated equipment the source. Those individuals who developed gastrointestinal illness had eaten at the restaurant between the dates of April 20th and 24th. At that time, employees were interviewed and procedures were examined to try to determine the source of the salmonella bacteria. Laboratory analysis along with histories of what those 65 people who became ill had eaten indicated that meringue was the probable source of the outbreak.
During the same time period, other locations across the country experienced similar salmonella enteritidis outbreaks that were identified by the CDC, and the Durham County Health Department stated that a common ingredient was found to be the source of all, which was pastuerized egg whites that were commercially distributed and sold by a restaurant supplier. The eggs used in making meringue at the Bullock’s restaurant came from this same supplier.
Salmonella food poisoning produces only mild symptoms in healthy individuals, such as nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea; however, those with a compromised immune system, young children and the elderly may be at risk for serious complications. Salmonella Symptoms usually occur within 12 to 72 hours after consuming tainted foods. Those at a high risk of complications should see a doctor at once if symptoms develop.
Those who experience salmonella food poisoning after eating foods tainted with bacteria may have rights for compensation of those expenses related to your illness. Contact a reputable New York food poisoning attorney to learn what rights you may have.