On behalf of Superintendent Dr. Jerri Lynn Lippert: We would like to inform parents of a situation that occurred today at Donaldson, McKee and Wilson Elementary Schools during lunch service. Some students were served brown rice that was found to contain what is believed to be rice weevils. Rice weevils are tiny, beetle-like insects found in grain products commonly stored in pantries. The rice was immediately pulled from the service lines. The Allegheny County Health Department was immediately notified. In consultation with the Health Department, they have indicated that rice weevils are not harmful if ingested and are killed during cooking. All three elementary schools did serve some students the contaminated rice. All remaining rice bags were promptly removed and discarded. Approximately 130 students were served the rice across all three schools. The rice was not served to our middle and high students today. Upon investigation, our Food Service Director, Mr. Jim Sheridan, confirmed that the rice is government issued and supplied by Texas Star Company. The rice is delivered to the district in sealed bags. We believe the rice bags were delivered already contaminated with weevils. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture indicated similar complaints of rice weevils from other agencies. This evening, our pest management company will be inspecting the Donaldson Cafeteria. All elementary lunches are currently prepared at Donaldson and transported to McKee and Wilson. We will adhere to all recommendations from our pest management company. We currently follow all USDA guidelines for food storage and preparation. The district also participates in two mandatory health inspections annually and no food-related violations have been found. In addition, procedures will be put in place to closely inspect all food prior to meal preparation and service. We will continue to consult with the Allegheny County Health Department as we proceed with ensuring food safety storage and preparation in the coming days. We appreciate your understanding with respect to this issue. We will work proactively to ensure this does not occur again. Please direct specific inquiries to our Food Service Director, Mr. Jim Sheridan, at 724-695-5254 or [email protected]. If we receive additional information other than what is provided above, we will communicate accordingly
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 22:17:02 +0000
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