First lawsuit filed against Del Monte in Cyclospora outbreak

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The first lawsuit has been filed against Del Monte Fresh Produce on behalf of Wisconsin resident Aaron Ringmeier, who was infected with Cyclospora after consuming produce from a Del Monte Fresh Produce vegetable tray.

Ringmerier is represented by Marler Clark, a food safety law firm.

On May 26, Ringmerier purchased a Del Monte Fresh Produce vegetable tray from Kwik Trip in Mantiowoc. The pre-packaged tray contained broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and dill dip. On June 6, Ringmerier began experiencing symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and fatigue. Two weeks later, he sought medical attention at Aurora Medical Center. Due to the severity of his illness, Ringmerier continued treatment until July 15.

A stool sample taken by the ACL laboratories of Aurora Medical Center tested positive for Cyclospora. The Wisconsin Department of Health linked Ringmerier’s Cyclospora infection to the Del Monte Cyclospora outbreak.

On June 15, the CDC announced a Cyclospora outbreak linked to Del Monte 6- and 12-ounce vegetable trays containing cauliflower, carrots, and dill dip. As of Sept. 6, 250 people have been ill in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Eight people have been hospitalized; no deaths have been reported.