Lifesoy Inc., a San Diego-based manufacturer of ready-to-eat soy products has been closed down by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for preparing, packing, and holding articles of food under unsanitary conditions. An order from the FDA requires Lifesoy to stop manufacturing and distributing food products until the company registers with the FDA and complies with federal laws regarding sanitary practices.

The government’s complaints alleges that:

• Lifesoy did not hold and store the foods under proper refrigeration conditions to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
• Pests and pest excreta was noticed throughout the facility where food was being manufactured and packaged.
• The company failed to provide employees with adequate hand washing and toilet facilities.
• Several products were found to be mislabeled and incorrect.

According to the FDA, Lifesoy must retain a qualified sanitation expert, with no personal or financial ties to the company, to develop and implement a written sanitation program to assure that the operations comply with current Good Manufacturing Practices. Before the company may reopen it must receive FDA approval of its sanitation program and have the agency re-inspect the facility.

Lifesoy was first inspected by the FDA in November 2007. The Agency attempted to help the company come into compliance with appropriate food safety laws, however Lifesoy failed to comply resulting in this action.