Taylor Farms Maryland, Inc. – FDA EIR, Aug 25, 2017

An FDA inspection of Taylor Farms Maryland, Inc., a fresh-cut produce manufacturer in Annapolis Junction, MD, was conducted from August 22-25, 2017. The inspection, performed jointly with the Maryland Department of Health, focused on compliance with Preventive Controls for Human Food regulations (21 CFR Part 117).The inspection revealed two primary violations documented on an FDA Form 483. First, the company failed to implement adequate written procedures for monitoring sanitation controls (21 CFR 117.145(a)), with visible food debris observed on direct food-contact surfaces after cleaning and sanitizing, prior to production. Second, the firm did not implement adequate written corrective action procedures for sanitation controls, as equipment and utensils were not properly maintained (21 CFR 117.150(a)(1)). Specific issues included worn and stained conveyors, a cracked plastic shovel, residue on plastic slicing line components, fraying belts, rust on slicer blades and dicer interiors, and a torn plastic shroud.Additionally, several concerns were verbally discussed, including an improvised gasket, dirty power cords, and structural deficiencies like chipped floors and paint. The firm's hazard analyses and food safety plans were also noted as incomplete, failing to consider all reasonably foreseeable hazards or identify all process-related hazards.Company management committed to a written response by September 15, 2017. Proposed actions include retraining sanitation staff, replacing damaged equipment, and re-evaluating and correcting food safety plans and hazard analyses. Many physical repairs are projected for December 2017.