K A S H R U T . C O M_©

The following health alerts from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets on February 23, 2009 .

STATEMENT FROM AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER PATRICK HOOKER Regarding the Suspension of the Ahava Cheese Plant in Ogdensburg "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."