Bi-County Farm Bureau Coop Assn Inc – FDA 483, May 30, 2009

An FDA inspection conducted at BI-County Farm Bureau Coop Association Inc., an animal feed manufacturer located in Florence, KY, from May 21-30, 2009, revealed significant unsanitary conditions and pest control deficiencies. The FDA 483 document cited five key observations. Firstly, the facility failed to implement effective measures to exclude pests, with numerous live and dead rodents observed throughout the feed mill, including on product pallets and spilled feed. Live birds were also seen flying inside and nesting within the facility. Several bags of Legends Show & Pleasure Textured Horse Feed and Feed Grade Sodium Bicarbonate showed clear evidence of rodent gnawing and excreta, indicating product contamination. Secondly, the facility was not maintained in a sanitary condition. Extensive rodent excreta pellets, spilled product, and bird droppings were found on floors, equipment, and directly in contact with corn in augers and storage piles. The basement had standing water, and a pile of debris contained maggots. The entire second floor was coated in a thick layer of dust and dirt. Thirdly, building repairs were inadequate to prevent adulteration, with multiple holes and gaps in floors, walls, and doors, providing easy ingress and egress for pests. Fourthly, rodenticides were used improperly; open bags were found in close proximity to animal feed products, contrary to label instructions. Finally, the company failed to cut weeds and grass around the plant, creating potential harborage areas for pests. The company is required to address these inspectional observations by implementing corrective actions to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for animal feed manufacturing.