Nockolds Resources

Spanish Cucumbers, German Bean Sprouts or other - Food / Bacterial Poisoning (E-Coli)

With over 20 confirmed deaths and 1000’s of people taken ill as a result of the e-coli outbreak in Germany people are starting to seriously look at what they eat and where it comes from. Nearly all those that have been affected live in, or have visited Germany but where did the e-coli bacteria come from?
Was it Spanish Cucumbers, German Bean Sprouts or something else which caused the deaths and illnesses? At the time of writing we still do not know for certain.


There are many causes of food poisoning but the most common causes are due to the preparation, cooking or handling of food in an improper manner. Food is available in many different places and so an illness or Personal Injury due to food poisoning can happen at home, in a restaurant, on a plane or ship, whilst on holiday or even at work.


How do you know if you have food poisoning?
The symptoms of food poisoning range from diahorea and vomiting to muscle aches, nausea stomach cramps and tiredness. Many of which are common to many other illnesses so it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
Symptoms can appear within a matter of hours although it may take 2 – 3 days to materialise by which time it may be difficult to identify the source.

If I have suffered from food poisoning what should I do?
Visit a Doctor: The most important first step is to go and see your doctor or if you are away from home some other medical professional. If the doctor identifies food poisoning they may be able to take stool samples to confirm the cause.
If food poisoning is identified your doctor should notify the Environmental Health Department. If the food poisoning was caused at a restaurant they can then carry out an investigation to see what may have been the cause.


Log details of where and when you ate / purchased the food: You should also take details of where and when you purchased or ate the food you suspect may be the cause, keep a note of what else you have eaten, retain receipts, packaging and any of the food that you may still have.

Can I claim compensation for my injuries?
Yes but detailed medical evidence will be required. Your solicitor will instruct a medical expert to prepare a thorough report from an expert and it is essential that the expert identifies what caused your food poisoning. They will have access to your medical records and in particular any tests taken at the time which is why it is so important to see a doctor as soon as possible after you become ill.

If you believe you may have suffered food poisoning in a restaurant, café, whilst on holiday or even in your own home please contact one of our team of Personal Injury experts on 01279 755777 or email accidents@nockolds.co.uk. We will be happy to arrange an appointment to discuss your claim.

The majority of personal injury claims we manage at Nockolds are dealt with on a no win no fee basis or are covered by Insurance and therefore there is rarely any costs payable by the client. At the initial interview we will explore all funding options with you and ensure you are happy to proceed with your claim.


Ivan Moody 7th June 2011

Ivan Moody (profile) Ivan Moody Tuesday 7th June 2011
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