December 8, 2014 — Inspections of a Chobani yogurt facility in Idaho found evidence of mold contamination months before products were recalled and hundreds of people reported food poisoning.
The documents were released to the Twin Falls Times-News under a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. They indicate that a lab technician noted a “yeast like growth developing in the yogurt samples” and swelling in some product samples taken from a Chobani facility in Twin Falls.
According to the inspection report (PDF):
“The firm at this point believed it was a yeast problem and began an equipment cleaning regimentation but found the problem was being reduced but not stopped, so samples were sent to [redacted], where a mold growth of Mucor circinelloides was plated.”
The Times-News talked to Pamela Juker, a spokeswoman for the Idaho Department of Agriculture, who said the state was not aware that mold was found during the July inspection. She was not sure how the FDA got this information.
In August 2013, consumers began reporting swelling and foamy growth in their yogurt. The company’s Facebook page became a forum for hundreds of complaints. In September, Chobani recalled yogurt produced at the Twin Falls, Idaho, facility with “best by” dates between September 11 and October 7.
Chobani insisted that the mold was commonly found in yogurt production and did not pose a health risk. However, in a study published earlier this year, microbiologists warned that Mucor circinelloides could survive in the gastrointestinal system.
At least 300 people reported symptoms of food poisoning after eating the yogurt, including nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. In some cases, the symptoms lasted for days.
Do I have a Chobani Yogurt Food Poisoning Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Chobani yogurt induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know had food poisoning from eating recalled Chobani yogurt, 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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