Investigation Into the Yu Shang Food Listeria Outbreak
Public health officials have linked a serious Listeria outbreak to Yu Shang Food’s ready-to-eat meat and poultry products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 19 people from eight different states have been infected since October 2021. Sadly, many were hospitalized, several pregnancies were affected, and at least three infants lost their lives.
On November 9, 2024, Yu Shang Food recalled various products due to suspected contamination. Then, on November 21, 2024, they expanded that recall after more testing confirmed the presence of Listeria in additional items. If you have any of these products at home, you should throw them out or return them to the store for a refund.
The CDC and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) found genetic links between Listeria in Yu Shang Food’s products and the Listeria strain making people sick. This means that the outbreak is directly tied to contaminated foods produced by Yu Shang Food, potentially putting people at risk nationwide.
What You Need to Know About Listeria
Listeria (officially called Listeria monocytogenes) is a bacterium that can cause an illness known as listeriosis. This infection often affects older adults, pregnant individuals, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, loss of balance, and even convulsions. In pregnant women, it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious infection in newborns.
Most people infected with Listeria require medical care. Hospitalizations are common, and the journey to recovery can be long and stressful. You may already be worried about mounting medical bills, lost income, or the lasting effects on your family’s well-being. We understand how overwhelming that can feel, and we’re ready to guide you through your legal options.
Details of the Outbreak
- Affected States: At least eight states have reported confirmed illnesses tied to Yu Shang Food’s ready-to-eat meat and poultry products. The actual number of impacted individuals could be higher because some people do not seek medical attention or get tested.
- Hospitalizations: Out of the 19 confirmed cases, 17 people (89%) required hospitalization. Listeria can be particularly dangerous for older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
- Pregnancy-Related Cases: The CDC has reported that seven of these illnesses are pregnancy-related. Sadly, multiple newborns have been affected, and several families have suffered tragic losses.
- Recall Efforts: The recall includes all ready-to-eat meat and poultry products produced by Yu Shang Food before October 28, 2024. If you have these items in your freezer or refrigerator, you should immediately dispose of them or take them back for a refund.
- Testing & Investigation: Routine testing by USDA-FSIS identified Listeria in pork snout products made by Yu Shang Food, and further tests confirmed contamination in the production environment. Whole genome sequencing revealed a genetic match between those samples and the bacteria infecting people across multiple states.
- Ongoing Risk: Because Listeria can live and grow even in cold temperatures, improperly stored or handled products can remain a source of infection for a long time. These concerns are particularly urgent for pregnant individuals, older adults, and anyone with compromised immunity.
Why This Matters to You
If you’ve been diagnosed with Listeria or are caring for someone who has suffered complications, you could be dealing with:
- Costly Medical Bills: Prolonged hospital stays, medication, and follow-up care can create financial burdens.
- Lost Wages: Taking time off work to recover or care for a loved one can reduce your income.
- Long-Term Health Concerns: Listeriosis can lead to serious complications, including issues that linger long after the initial infection.
- Emotional Distress: Worrying about your health, your family’s safety, and mounting expenses can be overwhelming.
You may wonder if you have grounds for a lawsuit against Yu Shang Food. While every situation is unique, filing a claim could help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other potential damages. This is not about sensational promises or scare tactics; it’s about asserting your legal rights when a company’s product has caused you harm.
Why Choose Ron Simon & Associates?
You want a legal team you can trust, one with the dedication and track record to stand against large corporations. At Ron Simon & Associates, we’ve represented thousands of people across the United States, Mexico, and Canada who have been harmed by tainted food. Together, we’ve achieved over $850 million net for our clients in a variety of foodborne illness cases.
Here’s how we stand apart:
- Extensive Foodborne Illness Experience
We’ve handled cases involving Listeria, Salmonella, E. coli, and other dangerous pathogens, including those tied to national brands. - No Fees Unless You Win
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully resolve your case. - Personal Commitment
We understand that facing medical bills and caring for your family at the same time is stressful. We’ll give your case the time and attention it deserves, so you feel supported throughout the process. - Team of Trial Lawyers
Our attorneys have a track record of going toe-to-toe with big companies. We won’t be outspent or outmaneuvered when fighting for your rights. - National Reach
Even though we’re based in Texas, we work with individuals nationwide. Our approach is the same no matter where you live: personal service, clear communication, and unwavering dedication.
Strict Deadlines May Apply
Food poisoning lawsuits must generally be filed within specific time periods, known as statutes of limitations. These deadlines vary by state. If you wait too long, you may lose the opportunity to hold Yu Shang Food accountable in court. It’s important to act as quickly as possible so we can start preserving vital evidence and building your case.
Take Action Today, We’re Here to Listen
We know how hectic life can feel when you or a loved one is ill. You might be juggling medical appointments, speaking with insurance companies, and trying to keep your household running. We want to help lighten that load by handling the legal side of things. Our goal is to give you the time and support you need to focus on your health and family.
- Call Today for a Free Case Review
You can speak directly with one of our attorneys to discuss your situation. We’ll talk about your symptoms, your timeline of exposure, and any proof you might have (such as receipts or medical tests). - We Treat You Like Family
We recognize that many people are frightened or upset when they reach out to us. Your peace of mind matters. That’s why our staff will treat you with compassion and respect from the first call until the final resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I have a valid claim?
If you or a loved one tested positive for Listeria after consuming Yu Shang Food’s ready-to-eat products, you might have a legal claim. We’ll evaluate your specific circumstances during your free consultation. Every situation is different, and the strength of your case depends on factors like confirmed test results and your medical records.
2. Can I file a claim even if I wasn’t hospitalized?
Yes. Although many people affected by Listeria require hospitalization, not everyone does. Some recover at home but still experience lost wages, emotional distress, and other setbacks. If medical tests confirm you were infected after eating these products, you may still pursue compensation for your losses.
3. How long does a Listeria lawsuit usually take?
The timeline can vary widely based on factors like the extent of your injuries, the complexity of the outbreak investigation, and how willing the defendant is to negotiate. While we can’t predict how quickly your case will resolve, we’ll keep you updated at every step.
4. What evidence do I need to support my claim?
Helpful evidence includes proof you purchased Yu Shang Food products (receipts, store loyalty records, or online invoices), medical records confirming your Listeria infection, and statements from doctors linking your condition to these foods. If you still have any leftover products in your fridge, do not throw them away before talking to us, potential testing could be crucial.
5. What if I lost a loved one to Listeria in this outbreak?
We’re deeply sorry for your loss. Surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit if the evidence suggests a direct connection to contaminated products. We’ll walk you through your legal options in a respectful and compassionate way.
6. Do I have to travel to Texas if I hire you?
In most instances, you won’t need to. Many of our clients live in other states or countries, and we communicate through phone, email, and video conferencing. We work hard to accommodate your schedule and make the process as seamless as possible.
Contact Us Now, Don’t Wait to Seek Help
We understand the anxieties that come with facing a food poisoning diagnosis. Whether you or a loved one is coping with the aftermath of listeriosis, you deserve caring legal guidance. Time is limited to file a claim, and every day matters when you’re gathering evidence and planning next steps.
Reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation. By sharing your story with us, you’ll gain clarity about your rights and potential legal options. We’ll explain how we handle these cases and what you can expect, all in plain language.
Call Now to schedule your free case review.
We’re ready to help you seek the compensation and closure you deserve.
