FDA finds salmonella at southern Minn. dairy plant

by Matt Sepic, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — The Food and Drug Administration says inspectors have found dangerous levels of salmonella at a southern Minnesota dairy plant. There were no reported illnesses linked to the contamination.

The facility in Winthrop produces buttermilk, nonfat dry milk, and other products.

Last week the FDA sent a warning letter to the Dairy Farmers of America - the cooperative that owns the plant.

The agency says samples taken from an inspection last August tested positive for Salmonella -- which can cause serious or even fatal infections in children and the elderly.

The FDA says it found other serious violations as well, including unclean equipment and food preparation areas. Inspectors say corrective measures the company took in September were not adequate.

Dairy Farmers of America did not provide a comment.