Illness or Injury Caused by Food Allergies or Contamination?
Food-related illness and allergic reactions can have serious consequences. Our solicitors provide clear legal guidance to help you understand your options and the process involved.
Trusted Legal Support for Food Allergy & Contamination Injuries
At HOMS Assist, we advise individuals who have been made ill or injured due to food contamination or undeclared allergens. These incidents may arise in restaurants, cafés, shops, hotels, takeaways, or other food-serving establishments.
Our solicitors provide clear, professional advice on food-related injury claims and guide clients through the Personal Injuries Resolution Board (PIRB) process with care, accuracy, and attention to detail.
What Is a Food Allergy or Contamination Claim?
A food allergy or contamination claim may arise where illness or injury occurs due to unsafe food practices, poor hygiene, cross-contamination, or a failure to provide adequate allergen information.
Food businesses have legal obligations to follow food safety regulations and to take reasonable steps to protect customers from foreseeable risks. Liability is assessed by examining whether appropriate hygiene standards, allergen controls, and warning systems were in place.
Food Poisoning Claims
Food poisoning can result from contaminated or improperly prepared food. Symptoms may range from mild illness to severe medical complications requiring hospital treatment.
Owners and managers of food-serving establishments have a duty to maintain high hygiene standards in food preparation, storage, and handling areas. Where illness occurs, responsibility is assessed by examining food safety practices, staff training, and compliance with hygiene regulations.
Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Claims
Food allergies, particularly nut allergies, can cause serious and life-threatening reactions, including anaphylaxis. This condition can lead to breathing difficulties, shock, and loss of consciousness if not treated immediately.
Businesses supplying food are required to provide clear information about allergens, including the potential presence of nuts. This information should be displayed on menus, packaging, or communicated by staff. Failure to do so may be relevant when assessing responsibility for an allergic reaction.
When assessing liability, consideration is also given to whether reasonable care was taken by all parties. Individuals with known allergies are expected to take appropriate precautions, such as carrying prescribed medication and informing staff of their allergy.
How We Support You After a Food-Related Injury or Illness
Food-related claims often require detailed evidence and careful assessment of food safety procedures. Our role is to guide you through each stage of the process and ensure your claim is properly prepared.
We provide:
- A clear explanation of your legal rights and the PIRB process.
- Assistance in gathering medical records and treatment documentation.
- Guidance on obtaining receipts, menus, packaging, or allergen information.
- Support in identifying the responsible food provider or supplier.
- Advice on preserving relevant evidence where available.
- Accurate preparation and submission of your PIRB application.
- Ongoing communication and updates throughout your case.
Our aim is to make the process as straightforward as possible while protecting your interests.
Why Choose Us?
Experienced Personal Injury Solicitors
Over five decades of experience advising on food-related injury and illness claims, including food poisoning and allergen-related cases.
Award-Winning Legal Expertise
Recognised as Personal Injury Law Firm of the Year, reflecting our commitment to high professional standards and quality legal support.
Clear, Practical Guidance
We explain your rights, the legal process, and evidential requirements in plain language at every stage.
Nationwide Support
With offices in Dublin, Limerick, and Cork, we provide trusted legal advice to clients throughout Ireland.
Speak with Our Team
If you’ve been made ill or injured due to food contamination or an undeclared allergen, our solicitors can provide clear, confidential advice about your situation. Contact HOMS Assist to discuss your options.
Food Allergy & Contamination FAQs
Responsibility may arise where reasonable food safety measures were not followed, such as poor hygiene practices or failure to provide clear allergen information.
Medical records, receipts, menus, packaging, allergen notices, and witness details may all be relevant when assessing what occurred.
Yes. Food businesses are required to clearly communicate allergen risks through menus, packaging, or staff. Failure to do so may be relevant when assessing liability.
In most cases, claims must be started within two years of the illness or from the date you became aware of the injury.
Many claims are resolved through the PIRB process. If litigation becomes necessary, your solicitor will guide you through each stage.
