An Oklahoma family initiated a lawsuit against Arby's and a former employee, claiming that an HSV-1 herpes infection resulted from the employee allegedly spitting in their food.
The former manager confronts felony poisoning charges linked to the incident.
Legal filings detail the family's claim that the food was tainted.
Inspire Brands, the parent company of Arby's, is also listed as a defendant in the case.
The lawsuit demands damages for medical expenses and emotional distress.
Authorities are looking into the alleged spitting incident.
If proven, the case could set a precedent for food safety litigation.
The family were clueless of any contamination until after falling ill.
Arby's has not issued a statement publicly on the allegations.
The case has attracted media attention across the country.
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant about food safety.