Dive Brief:
- Judge Robert H. O'Brien of the Los Angeles County Superior Court denied a request from the city of Irwindale, Calif., on Thursday that sought to shut down a plant operated by the Sriracha maker Huy Fong Foods.
- Residents had complained of symptoms including headaches and irritated eyes and throats, prompting the request.
- A preliminary injunction hearing on the matter is slated for Nov. 22.
Dive Insight:
Even June Ailin, an attorney for Irwindale, admitted that the judge's decisions came as no surprise. Getting the court to shut down the plant so quickly might have been an overreach, but right now the city seems intent on showing bothered residents that it means business. Huy Fong Foods, meanwhile, has installed new filters at its factory, and is monitoring air quality, the company's lawyer claimed. Will the efforts be enough to satisfy the city and avert prolonged legal battle? Let's all hope so.