Houston Food Allergy Litigation

A food allergy is an adverse immune response triggered by the ingestion of certain foods. This reaction occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat and mounts a defense against it. Food allergies can vary in severity from mild symptoms to life-threatening reactions.

How Food Allergies Work

When someone with a food allergy consumes the allergenic food, their immune system reacts by producing specific antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies bind to the food proteins and trigger the release of various chemicals, including histamine, from immune cells. This release leads to the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.

Common Symptoms of Food Allergies

Symptoms of food allergies can appear within minutes to a few hours after eating the allergenic food and may include:

• Skin Reactions: Hives, itching, or eczema
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
• Respiratory Problems: Wheezing, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing
• Cardiovascular Symptoms: Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

In severe cases, a food allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis can include symptoms such as:

• Swelling of the throat and airways
• Severe drop in blood pressure
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Loss of consciousness

Common Food Allergens

Several foods are known to cause the majority of allergic reactions. These include:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews)
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Soy
• Wheat

Houston State-Specific Food Allergy Facts

Food allergies affect approximately 8% of children and 4% of adults in Houston, mirroring national trends.

Houston Independent School District (HISD) has specific guidelines for managing food allergies, including creating individualized healthcare plans and having epinephrine auto-injectors available. Schools often implement “nut-free” zones or classrooms to reduce the risk of exposure.

Children under the age of 18 make up just over half (53%) of all food allergy claims in Texas.

The largest cause of claims with an anaphylaxis diagnosis is eggs at 38%, followed closely by peanuts and seafood, each with 33% of the claims.

When Might You Have a Legal Case?

Food allergy legal cases are a significant area of concern in health and legal systems due to the potentially severe consequences of allergic reactions. These cases typically arise when individuals with known food allergies are exposed to allergens, leading to adverse health effects. The legal landscape surrounding food allergies can be complex, involving various parties, regulations, and legal principles.

Product Liability Cases

Product liability cases occur when an individual suffers an allergic reaction due to consuming a food product that was mislabeled or contaminated. These cases often hinge on:

• Mislabeling: Failure to list allergens correctly on the packaging.
• Cross-contamination: Presence of allergens in products due to manufacturing processes.
• False Claims: Products marketed as allergen-free that contain allergens.

Restaurant Liability Cases

Restaurants and food service establishments are common sources of food allergy legal cases. These typically involve:

• Failure to Warn: Restaurants failing to inform patrons of the presence of allergens in their dishes.
• Improper Handling: Cross-contamination during food preparation.
• Negligence: Staff not taking proper precautions after being informed of a patron’s allergies.

School Liability Cases

Schools have a duty of care to protect students with food allergies. Legal cases in this area can arise from:

• Inadequate Policies: Schools lacking proper food allergy management policies.
• Negligent Supervision: Failure to supervise students with known allergies appropriately.
• Lack of Training: Staff not being trained to recognize and respond to allergic reactions.

Food allergy legal cases are diverse and can involve various legal principles and areas of law. Understanding these types can help individuals navigate the legal landscape more effectively and ensure better protection for those with food allergies. Legal professionals, businesses, and institutions must be aware of their responsibilities and take necessary precautions to prevent and address food allergy-related incidents.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has suffered due to food allergies, you don’t have to face it alone. The Lange Law Firm is dedicated to helping families impacted by food allergies get the justice they deserve. Call us at (833) 330-3663 or message us online today to arrange your free consultation. Let us stand by your side and fight for your rights. Reach out now and take the first step towards the support and compensation you need.