[Trigger warning]
An Oregon mother has filed a $155,000 lawsuit against a local eatery after allegedly being served beer-battered onion rings that triggered a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction. Mui Van filed the personal injury lawsuit against iWingz, claiming the restaurant failed to heed her explicit warnings about her severe allergy to hops, an ingredient commonly used in beer batter.
According to the legal complaint, the incident occurred during a family dinner when Van ordered a side of onion rings. Aware of her severe allergy, Van says she specifically asked her server whether the onion rings could be prepared without batter to ensure they would be safe for her to eat. The lawsuit alleges that she clearly informed restaurant staff about her medical condition before placing the order.
The complaint states that the server assured Van that her request could be accommodated and that the onion rings would be prepared safely. Trusting those assurances, Van proceeded to eat the dish when it arrived at her table. However, the lawsuit alleges the restaurant served her standard beer-battered onion rings instead.
After taking a bite, Van allegedly began suffering a severe allergic reaction. The lawsuit states that her lips swelled, her throat began to close, and she experienced difficulty breathing as the reaction rapidly escalated into anaphylactic shock. The sudden medical emergency unfolded in front of her family during what was supposed to be a routine dinner outing.
Van’s husband reportedly rushed her to a nearby hospital emergency room, where medical staff treated and stabilized her condition. The lawsuit argues that the restaurant’s alleged failure to properly accommodate a clearly communicated food allergy created a preventable and potentially fatal medical emergency.
Through the lawsuit, Van is seeking $155,000 in damages. The complaint alleges negligence on the part of the restaurant and states that the incident caused not only physical harm, but also ongoing anxiety and emotional distress following the traumatic reaction.
The case has refocused discussion about restaurant accountability and the importance of properly handling customer allergy disclosures. Van’s attorney emphasized that restaurants should be honest about whether they can safely accommodate allergy-related requests rather than assuring customers a meal is safe when there may still be risks involved.
We are happy Ms Van survived the ordeal and hope for a speedy recovery from her trauma.
We don’t know if she was carrying epinephrine, but everyone who has been prescribed the drug should always take two doses along and administer the first when they first suspect anaphylaxis.
People with food allergies put their lives in the hands of restaurants every time they order food outside the home. When dining out, we urge you to speak directly with the manager about your restrictions. If you don’t feel 100% confident in their ability to accommodate you safely, leave.
