Del Monte Vegetable Trays sold at Kwik Trip locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin have been associated with 14 cases of cyclosporiasis in those states. Those patients reported purchasing that product before they got sick.
The trays contain broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and a dill dip. But how does a product like this get contaminated with this parasite in the first place?
Cyclospora is a one-celled parasite that is typically found in developing countries. Every summer in the U.S., there is a cyclospora outbreak that is usually linked to produce such as snow peas, mesclun, or cilantro. People get sick when they drink water or eat food that is contaminated with the parasite. The infection is not passed person-to-person.
When a person ingests Cyclospora, the unsporulated oocysts are excreted in their feces. The parasite must sporulate before it becomes infectious; this happens in the environment and takes about 1 to 2 weeks. When the sporulated parasite gets onto food, and people eat that food, they get sick.
Attorney Fred Pritzker can be reached at 612-338-0202 or 1-888-377-8900.
Attorney Fred Pritzker, who has represented clients sickened by this parasite, explained, “Contaminated water that is used for irrigation is one way that Cyclospora oocysts can be deposited on food. Other methods of contamination can include human waste used as fertilizer, or unsanitary conditions on the farm.”
Fred added, “The CDC states that ordinary and routine sanitizing and disinfection, even with chemicals, is unlikely to kill this parasite. And there is no vaccine. The only way to kill the parasite is with heat or freezing for a day or two. That means that fresh produce is vulnerable.
“Another issue with this infection is that the only drugs that are recommended for treatment are sulfa-based,” he said. “That means that anyone who has contracted this infection and is allergic to sulfa drugs should talk to their doctors about optional treatment.”
This illness can, unfortunately, last for months. The main symptom is explosive and watery diarrhea. People may also suffer from fever, nausea, headaches, and vomiting. Some patients lose weight and experienced bloating, increased gas, and fatigue. Some patients may be unable to work for long periods of time because they can’t leave the house.
If you purchased Del Monte Vegetable Trays from Kwik Trip locations and have been experiencing those symptoms, or have been sick with symptoms similar to the flu, see your doctor.
