Foodborne illness claims, commonly referred to as “food poisoning,” are unlike any other products liability cases. Even in New Orleans, where so many fine dining restaurants are found, claims of foodborne illness, foreign objects in food, and food contamination outbreak claims are on the rise. The attorneys at GYF&M have successfully defended alleged foodborne illness claims asserted against local restaurant owners and leading worldwide producers of food products. Job one is to protect the client’s brand throughout every phase of the litigation.

We strive to dispose of most foodborne illness claims in the very early stages. With most alleged foodborne illness claims, the alleged culprit is often the last thing consumed outside of the home. Acute gastrointestinal complaints may lead to an emergency room visit and a differential diagnosis of food poisoning by an emergency medicine physician. Our attorneys possess the experience and skill needed to educate emergency room physicians and opposing counsel on the specific pathogens associated with foodborne illness, as well as the corresponding symptoms and incubation periods associated with the various pathogens. This unique approach to individual cases has lead to favorable medical testimony, summary dismissals, and the voluntary withdrawal of claims by opposing counsel.

Fraudulent claims involving foreign objects in food are well documented in recent years. Our attorneys and network of experts partner with the client to fully investigate and expose such claims. We work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that such claims are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.

Again, protection of the client’s brand is priority number one. Our attorneys employ a multifaceted approach to foodborne illness litigation. In addition to our success in disposing of unsubstantiated and fraudulent claims in the early stages, we partner with the client at the outset to effectively manage media relations and communications with various state and federal investigative agencies.

Contact Lyon H. Garrison or Darrin L. Forte in Louisiana or Scott P. Yount in Florida to learn more about our handling of this sensitive area of the law.