FDA WARNING_LETTER - Big D Ranch, Inc. - August 05, 2011

On August 3-5, 2011, the FDA inspected a warehouse/packing facility at 7590 South Ten Mile Road, Meridian, Idaho, and found objectionable conditions causing food adulteration under Section 402(a)(4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The facility's foods were prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions, potentially leading to contamination with filth or rendering them injurious to health.

Laboratory analysis of a filth sample confirmed extensive pest activity, including mouse and bird excreta, various animal and human hairs, feathers, and numerous dead and live insects (e.g., grain beetles, borers, spider beetles, flour beetles, house mites).

Significant violations included: 1. **Failure to exclude pests:** Live rodents and birds were observed in warehouses, along with evidence of rodents, birds, and insects near uncovered bulk beans and grains. Specific observations included rodent excreta pellets (REPs) and live rodents in multiple buildings storing or awaiting oats, feed barley, pinto beans, and soft white wheat. Live birds and bird nests were also noted in buildings storing pinto beans and soft white wheat. 2. **Failure to maintain facilities in repair:** Numerous holes and gaps were found in warehouse walls, doors, and roofs, serving as potential entry points for rodents and birds. Examples included a 1-inch hole with a live mouse, multiple 1/2-inch