Maple Leaf Foods has reached a C$25m (US$20.4m) settlement that it hopes will draw to a close class action lawsuits arising from August’s listeriosis outbreak, which was linked to the deaths of at least 20 people.
The lawsuits were launched on behalf of people who consumed, or purchased for consumption, products that were subject to the August recall, which resulted in the recall of 191 Maple Leaf products.
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The deal, which was agreed with the principle counsel groups, is subject to court approval in Saskatchewan, Quebec and Ontario.
“Our goal throughout this legal process has been to negotiate a fair and early settlement so that we can obtain court approvals and promptly compensate families who were affected,” said Maple Leaf president and CEO Michael McCain.
“This was a tragic experience and I want to acknowledge the cooperation of all the parties involved to ensure that people affected receive timely restitution.”
The settlement could increase by up to C$2m to the extent that claims and costs may exceed C$25m, the Toronto-based food group said yesterday (18 December).
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By GlobalDataThe class counsel, under the supervision of the court, will administer the compensation.
The settlement amount is fully funded by Maple Leaf Foods’ liability insurers.
