Maryland Code § 21-254

§ 21-254.

    (a)    (1)    For purposes of this section, an “immediate threat” exists if any meat, seafood, poultry, vegetable, fruit, or any other perishable substance that is intended for consumption as food:

            (i)    Contains any filthy, decomposed, or putrid substance;

            (ii)    Is poisonous or otherwise would be injurious to health if consumed; or

            (iii)    Is otherwise unsafe.

        (2)    If a food poses an immediate threat, it shall be considered a public nuisance.

    (b)    If the Secretary finds that a food poses an immediate threat, the Secretary immediately shall destroy the food or otherwise make the food unusable for consumption by human beings.

    (c)    The owner of a substance that is destroyed or otherwise made unusable under this section may bring a suit for damages against the Secretary.

    (d)    The Secretary shall have the immunity from liability described under § 5–633 of the Courts Article.