CONTACT: FOR RELEASE:
Jessica Chittenden Immediately, Friday
518-457-3136 February 20, 2009
STATEMENT FROM AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER PATRICK HOOKER
Regarding the Suspension of the Ahava Cheese Plant in Ogdensburg
“Today, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets suspended the operating permit of Ahava of California, which operates a cheese manufacturing facility in Ogdensburg. The suspension was based on inspections of the plant and samples of the plant’s products, which showed that continued operation and distribution of its products could pose a serious danger to the public’s health, safety and welfare.
“It is unfortunate that one of our dairy processing facilities is suspended from operation, however recent inspections found its products to have excessive levels of bacteria and coliform, as well as containing non-food grade oil. In addition, Ahava’s facility and equipment are in extreme disrepair, posing further potential contamination.
“The action taken today is effective immediately and stops all cheese processing and distribution at the Ogdensburg plant. Department inspectors have already seized over 25,000 pounds of cheese unfit for consumption, and all other product will be held until a determination is made that it is not adulterated. While Ahava only sold its products in bulk, the Department is committed to identifying any retail outlets that may have received Ahava products to assure the safety of the product.
“Since all operations at the Ogdensburg plant are currently suspended, we have notified the New York State Department of Labor of the possible job loss. The Department of Labor will take steps to provide services to all impacted employees.”
***This is a press release from the Commissioner of Agriculture
Posts
4 comments:
That sounds pretty extreme, once when I was younger I was told that some micro biological stuff was needed for cheese, beer and wine - but then I am only a consumer, not a producer nor regulator.
Hi Earl, I am thinking that for them to actually suspend the place it must have been something else for sure.
It never ends...if it isn't the recession it's something else. We go to Ogdensberg all the time when we are up at the cabin.
WR, this plant is one I wasn't familiar with, but I am sure this will be a big loss to farmers who ship there and the folks who depend on it for jobs....a shame....
Post a Comment