Taylor Farms Illinois Inc. – FDA EIR, Nov 15, 2017

Taylor Farms Illinois Inc., a producer of prepared meals, salads, sandwiches, and pot pies, underwent an FDA establishment inspection on November 15, 2017. The inspection, conducted under FDA Contract #HHSF223201710200C, focused on sanitary conditions and adherence to food safety standards.

The inspection identified several issues primarily related to sanitation and housekeeping. Observed deficiencies included dust accumulation around overhead cooling units and on fan screens, presence of wood and plastic debris under loading dock ramps, cracked plastic curtains in the freezer, and a damaged drain cover in the "Kit Room." Additionally, a soiled plastic crate was found stored with clean ones, and a maintenance worker was observed without a beardnet in the processing area, posing a potential contamination risk.

The inspection concluded with a "Voluntary Action Indicated" (VAI) classification, signifying that while objectionable conditions were noted, they did not warrant immediate regulatory enforcement. The company provided verbal assurances that corrections for the general sanitation and housekeeping deficiencies would be implemented within the week of the inspection. An FDA Form 483, detailing the observations, was issued. The firm was also provided with information on key regulatory frameworks, including rules on Sanitary Transportation, Preventive Controls for Human Food, Mitigation Strategies for Intentional Adulteration, and Food Facility Registration, emphasizing the ongoing expectation for compliance with these food safety regulations.