In the wake of reports that Zomick’s failed 10 out of 17 recent health inspections, the bakery has put out a statement that goes beyond what a company employee told JTA on Thursday: We’re clean!
Here’s an excerpt:
Some media reports that our production bakery was producing products that were unsafe are inaccurate and false! While we may have had a few isolated incidents years ago, the bakery adheres to the highest standards of safety and has passed all recent inspections. ln February 2013, Zomick’s passed the inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. As part of our rigorous safety program, we set very high standards for the cleanliness of our bakery, as any visitor can plainly see.
The statement fails to note that the February inspection was the first the company had passed since July 2011.
Here’s what inspectors from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets have found at Zomick’s over the last few years: cockroaches, beetles, mice and birds.
No word on whether any of those insects made it into the challahs or those “bonus omelets” that often come attached to the egg-heavy breads.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
