Allergies may bring additional lawsuits for food industry

The food industry – including restaurants, farmers, manufacturers and store owners – is now at risk of potential lawsuits regarding the products they sell, as the federal disabilities law will take into consideration consumer disputes regarding any food allergies they may have, according to the Associated Press.

The problem stems from a settlement that was completed recently after a college student in Massachusetts accused the institution of lacking gluten-free foods in its cafeterias. This could set a precedent for those with peanut allergies or diabetes to file lawsuits against any organizations that do not cater to their particular diet.

Anyone with food allergies could cause a ruckus for businesses that allegedly don’t fully comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Colleges and universities, in particular, could be put to the test, as students often have few choices in where to go eat off-campus and may be left without transportation to travel for their meals. Also, with parents relying fully on these academic institutions to take care of their children’s needs, it becomes more necessary for colleges to comply with the food allergies of their students.

“These kids don’t want to be isolated,” Alice Bast, president and founder of the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, told the news source. “Part of the college experience is being social. If you can’t even eat in the school cafeteria then you are missing out on a big part of college life.”

Arizona-based food producers, manufacturers, universities and schools should heed this settlement and the advice offered from the case. In order to protect the interests of consumers, it is important to follow the Americans with Disabilities Act. For further information, companies are advised to contact business attorneys from Phoenix law offices.

Categorised in: Litigation

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