January 28, 2015 — The Seattle Times reports that a local ice creamery failed an inspection just two months before its products were linked to two cases of listeriosis.
Inspectors documented a number of violations on October 15, including “dried, flaking residue” on a pasteurizer vat, “black residue” on metal carts, flooring that was rotting away, pools of water, men without facial-hair protection, mold, flies, and grime.
These problems were not deemed “critical” and Snoqualmie was allowed to continue producing ice cream and gelato, despite a failing grade of 87 on the inspection report (90 is passing).
Unfortunately, problems persisted and additional issues were documented during an inspection in December 2014. On milk crates being used to store utensils, there was a “black build-up and hairlike growth” just five feet away from an ice cream pint-filler.
Operations at the facility shut down on December 15 after health officials matched strains of Listeria monocytogenes in two sick people to strains collected from the facility. Before the shut-down, Snoqualmie was sending 1,000 gallons of ice cream, sorbet, and gelato to Whole Foods, Fred Meyer, Molly Moon, Seattle’s Space Needle, and other retailers every day.
On December 23 a recall was issued for all lots, flavors, and sizes of products produced since January 1. Those products included:
- Snoqualmie Ice Cream
- Snoqualmie Gelato
- Snoqualmie Custard
- Snoqualmie Sorbet
- Emerald & Spruce Ice Cream
- Top Pot Hand Forged Ice Cream
Do I have a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting food poisoning induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with Listeria after eating Snoqualmie ice cream, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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