2nd Peanut Plant Closed as Probe Expands

A company linked to a salmonella outbreak closed a second plant February 10. The Texas plant was owned by a branch of the Peanut Corporation of America. The Associated Press said it did not have a license. A company plant in Georgia was closed last month because of salmonella in the plant. More than 500 people have become sick. Eight have died. Food companies have recalled more than 1,700 products that contain peanut butter or paste from the Georgia plant. U.S. officials also are weighing criminal charges against the company. On February 11, the company president refused to answer questions from Congress. The Washington Post said he cited his rights under the U.S. Constitution. People have the right not to testify against themselves.