Charles Roberson, a Washington grandfather, tragically died after consuming a milkshake from Frugals burger restaurant that was contaminated with listeria. The bacterial infection was traced back to an improperly cleaned ice cream machine at the restaurant. His wife, Linda Roberson, filed a wrongful death claim against Frugals, asserting negligence in the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of the shakes. The restaurant admitted to its failure in proper cleaning during an internal investigation.
Bill Marler, a food safety lawyer representing the Roberson family, expressed the importance of transparency and learning from this incident to prevent future tragedies. Frugals ceased using its ice cream machines on August 8, but the incubation period for listeria can be up to 70 days.
Charles Roberson experienced symptoms such as neck and arm numbness and pain shortly after consuming the milkshake. He sought medical attention and underwent surgery for suspected neurological issues. Unfortunately, his condition worsened, and he passed away weeks later.
Tests on Charles Roberson’s spinal fluid confirmed the presence of listeria. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeria infection, can cause serious illness, including confusion, seizures, miscarriage in pregnant women, and even death. Those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
The genetic testing of bacteria in the milkshakes revealed that six people in total had contracted the same strain of listeria from Frugals between February and July, resulting in three deaths. Improper cleaning of food processing equipment can lead to water accumulation and contamination, allowing listeria bacteria to grow and potentially contaminate food.
Food safety experts anticipate more cases emerging due to the delayed onset of symptoms. It is crucial for individuals who consumed a Frugals milkshake between May 29 and August 7, 2023, and are experiencing listeria symptoms to contact their healthcare providers.
Frugals expressed remorse for the harm caused and promptly halted the sale of milkshakes at all its locations. Testing and sanitization of machines at other stores are underway to ensure customer safety. Listeria can be found in various foods, but it is commonly associated with unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, and ready-to-eat foods. Proper hygiene practices, including handwashing, washing fruits and vegetables, following storage recommendations, and ensuring hot food is thoroughly cooked, can help prevent listeria contamination.
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