An investigation into Salmonella contamination at Strauss in Israel has found not all food safety procedures were consistently followed but no direct evidence that the issues led to the incident. A committee was created after the Salmonella chocolate recall and temporary plant closure in 2022 to investigate the conduct of the company and its officers. It examined administrative procedures and processes, controls, and the corporate governance of the company across almost 50 meetings.
The maximum claimable damage caused to the business as a result of the incident was estimated by the committee at NIS 293 million (U.S. $82 million).
The Board of Directors at Strauss Group adopted the committee’s findings, conclusions, and recommendations. This includes a proposed settlement agreement, in which the insurers agreed to pay the company NIS 27 million (U.S.
$7.5 million). Experts concluded that administrative processes in the company and its procedures prior to the event were appropriate, and sampling plans did not deviate from the law or from reasonable professional standards.
Committee’s assessment Several flaws were noted in the conduct of employees in management and in quality at Strauss Israel. They concerned non-compliance and deficiencies in control and oversight on the implementation of procedures relating to food quality and safety. However, there was no proof of a causal link between these acts or omissions and the damage.
During routine tests for Salmonella at the choc.