Economic Impact of Meat Recall Forces Topps Out of Business
After 67 years, Topps is closing its doors.
Compiled by staff
Published: Oct 5, 2007
The second-largest beef recall in U.S. history has caused Topps Meat Company LLC to go out of business. More than 21.7 million pounds of ground beef products from the company's Elizabeth, N.J. processing facility were recalled due to E. coli contamination.
"This is tragic for all concerned," said Anthony D'Urso, Chief Operating Officer. "In one week we have gone from the largest U.S. manufacturer of frozen hamburgers to a company that cannot overcome the economic reality of a recall this large."
D'Urso says the company regrets the illnesses that have been linked to the company's products and hopes for those individuals recovery. He says this closure will impact employees, consumers and suppliers as well as the Elizabeth community.
A few employees will stay at the plant to help the USDA with their investigation and to ensure the effectiveness of the recall.
"We want to thank our loyal employees and customers who have supported us throughout the 67 years in which Topps Meat has been in business," D'Urso said. "Topps has always prided itself on providing the utmost quality and safety and never had a recall in our history until now. This has been a shocking and sobering experience for everyone."
Individuals with business related questions can direct them to info@toppsmeat.com.
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