FDA Says Blue Bell Didn't Initially Report Listeria Contamination

The FDA says Blue Bell never reported listeria in its creameries and the agency had no idea there was contamination until it began its own investigation a few months ago.

Sunday, May 10th 2015, 12:02 am

By: News On 6

FDA Says Blue Bell Didn't Initially Report Listeria Contamination

The FDA says Blue Bell never reported listeria in its creameries and the agency had no idea there was contamination until it began its own investigation a few months ago.

We told you earlier this week that the FDA found 16 positive tests for the bacteria in Broken Arrow's plant dating back to March 2013.

Companies are required to report a "reasonable probability" their food will make someone sick, but Blue Bell's initial positive listeria samples were on surfaces and not in ice cream.

A state health inspection found no violations at the BA plant in March, the same month the listera outbreak was linked to Blue Bell.

The FDA found a number of violations in its inspection. Blue Bell says it is making changes to help prevent any future problems.

4/22/2015 Related Story: Blue Bell Plant Closed Until Products Are Safe