FDA EIR - Taylor Farms Retail Inc. - September 22, 2016

An FDA surveillance inspection of Earthbound Farm, LLC, a Ready-To-Eat leafy greens manufacturer, was conducted from September 20-22, 2016. The inspection, performed under the Domestic Food Safety Program (CP 7303.803), involved comprehensive surveillance and environmental sampling for Listeria monocytogenes. A notable observation, though not leading to a formal FDA-483, concerned a potable water hose used for sanitizing food contact surfaces found resting on the ground, conflicting with 21 CFR Part 110 Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). Additionally, firm management refused to allow photography during the inspection. Review of past records revealed positive Listeria species findings in environmental monitoring in January 2015, with the firm's policy indicating no production stoppage in such cases. In response to the hose observation, Earthbound Farm management committed to sanitizing the nozzle before each use and reassessing hook height and employee practices. Environmental samples collected during this specific inspection tested negative for Listeria monocytogenes.