Butterball controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2024
PETA allegations of abuse
PETA released undercover video and written allegations describing severe mistreatment of turkeys by workers. The claims were made by PETA and should be distinguished from independently adjudicated findings.
2021
Butterball recalls ground turkey over blue plastic contamination concerns
Recall announced
Butterball is recalling 14,107 pounds of ground turkey that may be contaminated with blue plastic after consumer complaints. USDA food safety inspectors found blue plastic particles in the affected raw turkey; the source does not state when the recall was announced.
Source excerpt
After receiving consumer complaints, Mount Olive, North Carolina-based Butterball is recalling 14,107 pounds of ground turkey products that may be contaminated with blue plastic, according to the Food Safety Inspection Service.
2021
Butterball recalls ground turkey products over possible blue plastic contamination
Recall announced
Butterball, LLC, is recalling approximately 14,107 pounds of ground turkey products after consumer complaints reported pieces of blue plastic embedded in raw ground turkey. The recall includes Butterball and Kroger products shipped to retail locations nationwide; no confirmed consumption-related injuries were reported.
Source excerpt
3-lb. tray containing “Kroger GROUND TURKEY” with the case code 50211271, a sell or freeze by date of 10/17/2021, and timestamps from 2314 through 2351 printed on the packaging.
The problem was discovered when FSIS and the establishment received consumer complaints reporting pieces of blue plastic embedded in raw ground turkey produced by Est. 7345.
2012
Second animal-welfare investigation and criminal cases
A further Mercy for Animals investigation alleged abuse and neglect at multiple Butterball operations. Related proceedings included guilty pleas by employees and a felony cruelty conviction involving Brian Douglas.
2012
Obstruction case involving agriculture official
North Carolina agriculture official Sarah Jean Mason pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice after admitting that she warned Butterball about a law-enforcement raid connected with the animal-cruelty investigation.
2011
Mercy for Animals investigation
Mercy for Animals reported alleged kicking, stomping, dragging, violent crating, and untreated injuries at a Butterball-linked turkey facility in North Carolina. The investigation was followed by a raid and criminal proceedings against workers.