State and federal inspectors have difficult jobs – I doubt there are many in the processing industry who would argue that. They monitor the actions that take place at a processing plant (or plants) and ensure that every operation adheres to a HACCP plan. Inspectors spot problems with operations, violations of food safety practices and, when necessary, write up companies for serious infractions.
What happens, though, when an inspector stops identifying problems and becomes a problem? Nobody expects a processor and an inspector to be best pals, but what if they can’t maintain even a professional relationship? The processor has to allow an inspector into their facility, give them access to the plant floor and all their records, and even provide office space for them. Does the processor have any rights in the relationship?