Sunco & Frenchie LLC’s Terrafina Golden Raisins Pose Potential Health Threat to Those with Allergies
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified a recent recall of golden raisins from New Jersey-based Sunco & Frenchie LLC as a Class I recall, marking it as the highest risk level due to the potential for severe health consequences. This recall affects batches of Terrafina Golden Raisins, which were distributed in New York and flagged for containing undeclared sulfites. For individuals with allergies to sulfites, consuming these raisins could trigger life-threatening allergic reactions, prompting the FDA to issue a serious warning.
The recall was initiated on August 26 after routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors identified the presence of sulfites in the product. Although sulfites are commonly used as a preservative in dried fruits to prevent darkening during the drying process, they pose significant health risks to those with allergies. The failure to list sulfites on the product labels led to the recall, with concerns over severe allergic reactions such as asthma attacks or even anaphylaxis.
The affected products, packaged in 10oz clear plastic containers with bright orange labels, carry UPC number 847938001385 and “Best If Used By” dates of “05/2025” or “08/2025.” The lot numbers for the recalled batches are GRA240602 and GDR240901. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund and are advised not to consume them.
How People Are Harmed and Injured by This Product
Golden raisins, like many dried fruits, are often treated with sulfites to maintain their light color and extend shelf life. While this poses no threat to most people, those with sulfite allergies or sensitivities can experience severe reactions. Sulfite exposure can lead to symptoms such as asthma attacks, hives, stomach cramps, and, in extreme cases, anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that can restrict breathing, cause blood pressure to drop, and lead to shock. It requires immediate treatment, usually through an epinephrine injection (EpiPen), which can reverse symptoms and prevent further complications.
In the case of the recalled golden raisins, individuals with sulfite allergies are at a heightened risk of suffering from these symptoms, especially since the sulfites were not declared on the product label. This lack of transparency is not only a violation of food labeling standards but also a serious threat to public health. The FDA’s classification of this recall as high-risk underscores the potential danger for allergic individuals who unknowingly consume these raisins.
Filing a Lawsuit for Damages and Why Legal Representation is Essential
Victims who have been harmed by undeclared allergens in food products, such as sulfites in the Terrafina Golden Raisins, have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. These types of lawsuits allow individuals to pursue damages for the physical, emotional, and financial harm caused by defective or mislabeled products.
The legal process in a product liability case can be complex, involving the establishment of negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty on the part of the manufacturer. In this case, Sunco & Frenchie LLC could potentially be held liable for failing to properly label their product, exposing consumers to dangerous allergens without their knowledge.
Filing a claim for damages involves several key steps:
- Documenting the Injury: The victim must provide proof of their allergic reaction or other injuries caused by the defective product. This typically involves medical records, receipts for medical treatments, and testimony from healthcare providers.
- Establishing Liability: The victim’s legal team must demonstrate that the manufacturer was negligent in failing to disclose the presence of sulfites on the product label or in ensuring the product met safety standards.
- Negotiating Settlements or Going to Trial: Many product liability claims are settled out of court, but if a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial. This can be a lengthy and stressful process, which is why having an experienced attorney is crucial.
Given the legal complexities involved, having an attorney at each stage of the lawsuit process is essential. An attorney can gather the necessary evidence, navigate the legal system, and negotiate with the manufacturer’s legal team to secure fair compensation for the victim. Without legal representation, victims may face significant challenges in proving their case and obtaining the compensation they deserve.
Damages Recoverable in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Victims of defective or mislabeled products can recover a range of damages in a successful lawsuit. These may include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of any treatments related to the allergic reaction or injury, including emergency room visits, medications, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages: If the injury caused the victim to miss work or led to long-term disability, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life can also be included in a lawsuit, especially in cases where the victim experienced a severe reaction like anaphylaxis.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the court finds the manufacturer acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for consumer safety, punitive damages may be awarded to further penalize the company.
