FDA 483 - San Francisco Herb & Natural Food Company - July 16, 2012

The FDA Form 483 inspection documented significant pest control deficiencies at a facility handling various botanical products. The primary observation was the failure to exclude pests from processing areas and protect against food contamination.

Specific violations included: - **Rodent Infestation:** Evidence of rodents was widespread. Three bags of Calendula Petals had gnaw holes, rodent excreta pellets (including in product), and apparent urine stains. Similar findings were noted on Sweet Paprika Powder (16 bags with urine stains, 10 with over 100 excreta pellets, one gnaw hole), Pau Darco Bark (excreta and gnaw hole), Rose Hips (excreta and urine marks on pallet), Roasted Chicory Root (gnaw hole and spilled product), Parsley Flakes (dead beetles on cartons, 10-15 rodent excreta pellets), Psyllium Husk, Telleferry Peppercorn, Ashwagandha Root, Peony Root, Minced Onion, Rosemary Leaves (excreta, gnaw holes, urine stains), Chicory Root Powder (100+ excreta pellets on floor), Flax Seeds (excreta), Olive Leaves (decomposed and live rodents, nests, urine stains, gnaw holes/tears), and Hops Flower (excreta, gnaw holes). - **Pest Entry Points:** Inadequate screening or protection against pests was observed. Multiple loading dock gates on both western