FDA 483 - Chamberlain Farms Inc. - August 31, 2012

This FDA Form 483 documents observations made during an inspection of a cantaloupe packing shed. The inspection revealed significant sanitary deficiencies and contamination issues.

Environmental swabs and product samples indicated Salmonella contamination. On August 16, 2012, cantaloupes from a 21-acre field (Old 65 and Co Rd 525 W) tested positive for Salmonella Newport and Salmonella Typhimurium. Cantaloupes collected from a cardboard bin after processing in the packing shed also tested positive for Salmonella Newport on the same date.

During the inspection on August 14, 2012, 7 of 50 environmental swabs from various packing shed locations tested positive for Salmonella Newport, and 2 of 50 tested positive for Salmonella Anatum.

Observations also noted that food contact surfaces were not constructed or designed for appropriate cleaning. Specifically, porous food contact surfaces, including carpet and wood, were used throughout the cantaloupe processing line, preventing adequate cleaning. Apparent rust and corrosion were observed on multiple pieces of equipment.

Furthermore, the firm failed to clean as frequently as necessary to protect against food contamination. On August 14, 2012, while cantaloupes were being processed, an accumulation of black, green, and brown buildup was observed on multiple conveyor locations, including rollers and belts. Debris, including trash, wood, food pieces, standing water, mud, dirt,