FDA WARNING_LETTER - Florida Gold Foods LLC - May 31, 2022

The FDA and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) inspected a milled rice re-packaging and distribution facility at 1770 and 1780 Business Center Lane, Kissimmee, Florida, from May 11-31, 2022. The inspection revealed serious violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation (21 CFR Part 117).

Filth samples collected from the warehouse showed rodent excreta pellets, multi-stage beetles, cat/dog hairs, flies, and moths. Samples of "Florida Gold brand 2-lb bags of rice" also contained various insect stages. These findings led to the determination that food products were adulterated under 21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(4) due to insanitary conditions.

Specific violations included: 1. **Failure to exclude pests (21 CFR 117.35(c)):** Extensive rodent activity (live rodents, excreta, urine stains) was observed on and in equipment, bulk rice totes, and throughout both buildings. Numerous live and dead insects (moths, beetles, weevils, spiders, flies, gnats, cockroaches) were found in processing equipment and in-process product. Live cats, cat feces/urine, and a rodent carcass were also present. 2. **Failure to maintain