Grassley Seeks Answers to USDA's Role at Egg Farms

Eggs pass through the quality control section at the Famer's Hen House Monday, Aug. 23, 2010 in Kalona. (Brian Ray)

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Sep 8, 2010 at 11:18 AM CST

Story Updated: Sep 8, 2010 at 11:18 AM CST

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley is asking Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to address accusations that federal workers ignored complaints about conditions at two Iowa farms involved in the recall of salmonella-tainted eggs.

Two former farm workers said last week that U.S. Department of Agriculture employees at Wright County Egg had ignored their complaints.

Grassley sent a letter to Vilsack on Tuesday asking whether the USDA had received complaints and what was done to investigate the concerns. He also asked Vilsack whether there is a system in place for farm and USDA employees to report concerns.

USDA spokesman Caleb Weaver says the agency is working on a response to Grassley, but a USDA employee doesn't recall any concerns being raised.

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