Dive Summary:
- Academic research showing that bacteria-killing chemicals used in chicken slaughterhouses may be masking salmonella and other bacteria is under review by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- Chemical companies brought the issue to the department's attention this spring, as new USDA goals to decrease the risk of pathogens has increased the number and strength of chemicals utilized in poultry processing.
- Some experts say the chemicals can also contribute to medical issues ranging from respiratory ailments to skin rashes.
From the article:
... The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is conducting a follow-up investigation into a New York poultry plant where one inspector, who was profiled in the Post story, died after his lungs bled out in 2011.
The latest allegations — that the stronger chemicals are undermining testing — are spurring finger-pointing among rival companies competing to sell their products to chicken processors. The companies say their competitors are the ones tripping up the tests. ...
