FDA EIR - Aromatics Incorporated - September 18, 2018

A routine WSDA/FDA contract inspection was conducted at Aromatics Incorporated on September 18, 2018. The company, which processes field-dried mint leaves and other botanicals, was found to have critical violations. Key issues included operating without an appropriate Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) license and the improper use of a portable hand wash sink situated before the milling area entrance. During the inspection, the firm's milling and pasteurization processes were reviewed, along with records for pest control, fumigation, private water analysis, and process validation. While Aromatics Incorporated demonstrated awareness of Good Manufacturing Practices, a written Food Safety Plan, Hazard Analysis, and a Recall Plan, it lacked an Environmental Monitoring Program. Fact sheets on the FSMA Preventative Control Rule, Sanitary Transport Rule, and Intentional Adulteration Rule were provided to management. Company leadership, including the Chief Operating Officer, requested further clarification on the observed violations before initiating corrective actions. Consequently, WSDA management is reviewing the inspection results to determine appropriate enforcement and has provided the firm with contact information for their Compliance Manager. The inspection aimed to ensure compliance with food safety standards for processors engaged in interstate commerce.