The Rise And Fall of A Peanut Empire

Following Peanut Corporation of America's Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, the Washington Post examines the implications for victims. The salmonella outbreak sickened more than 630 people in 44 states and contributed to nine deaths, prompting one of the largest recalls in U.S. history affecting over 2,000 products. "Given that (Peanut Corp.) is under criminal investigation, I'm not surprised they've gone bankrupt," said Marler, representing 47 clients including relatives of two people who died. His clients are also suing King Nut and Kellogg, which used PCA products. "It's regrettable, but it's inevitable with the events of last month." The bankruptcy will slow but not prevent lawsuits. "It just puts everything on hold," he explains, noting he would move to lift the litigation stay. The article reveals PCA had four outbreaks in the last decade. Owner Stewart Parnell repeatedly refused to answer congressional questions after records showed the company shipped contaminated products even after positive tests.