FDA EIR - Kasel Associates Industries, Inc. - February 14, 2013

An FDA re-inspection of Kasel Associates Industries, Inc., a Denver-based specialty pet treat manufacturer, occurred from February 13-14, 2013. This follow-up inspection was prompted by a previous September 2012 inspection that found severe issues, including Salmonella contamination, requiring official action. Conducted under the Feed Contaminant Program, the re-inspection identified five major violations, several of which were repeat observations. These included unsanitary food-contact surfaces and equipment, inadequate pest control measures (such as building gaps to the exterior), and employee practices that risked product contamination by transitioning between raw and finished product areas without proper hygiene. Additionally, the firm failed to protect work in progress, with sanitizer observed in a packaging line hopper contacting finished product, and the facility itself was in significant disrepair, with cracked floors and missing ceiling tiles. Verbal discussions also highlighted poor handwashing facilities and chemical storage issues. Owner/President Raymond J. Kasel promised immediate correction of all identified deficiencies. The company’s attorney stated they would review the FDA 483, Inspectional Observations, before formally responding. The FDA collected further environmental and product samples to investigate potential Salmonella contamination and informed management of available enforcement sanctions. These actions followed prior recalls by the firm due to Salmonella-positive products.