Audit finds cracks in Washington's egg inspection program

Washington’s Department of Agriculture failed to complete hundreds of required inspections of egg production and packing facilities in recent years, raising food safety concerns, according to a new state audit.

The State Auditor’s Office found the department only completed 11 of the 548 inspections it was required to carry out under state law between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2023.

“By not performing inspections as required by state law and Department policies, there is an increased risk that eggs unfit for human consumption may reach the consumer, posing serious health and safety risks,” according to the auditor’s report.

State law requires the Department of Agriculture to perform inspections at egg production plants yearly and at egg packing plants at least once each quarter.

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2024/07/27/audit-finds-cracks-in-washingtons-egg-inspection-program/