BASTROP, Texas — Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit Monday against Darling Ingredients, Inc. for unlawfully emitting odors and other chemicals from their factory in Bastrop, Texas. Paxton has described this type of odor as smelling like boiling blood, dog food and even death. He claims that on top of the bad stench, the company is likely emitting an excessive amount of hydrogen sulfide.
Paxton is alleging that Darling has failed to maintain the proper pH levels of processing equipment and is failing to perform basic maintenance and record-keeping activities.
“Texans should not be forced to endure offensive and harmful odors in their own communities, especially when a company is failing to comply with the standards required by law,” Paxton said in a news release. “Darling must not sacrifice the quality of life of Texas citizens for its production goals. My office will ensure that violations of Texas law are brought to an end and that the safety and livelihood of surrounding neighborhoods are protected.”
Darling is facing fines if it is found to be violating Texas air quality laws. This would require the company to immediately stop spreading the foul odors, comply with all permits and regulatory requirements as well as other corrective actions that are overseen by independent experts.
A spokesperson for Darling sent Spectrum News the following statement:
“Darling Ingredients has received the petition filed by the Texas Attorney General’s office and will respond through the appropriate legal channels. We are committed to being a good neighbor and protecting the health and safety of our employees and the communities where we operate. We encourage the local community to visit darlingii.com/bastrop to learn more about our operations and ongoing efforts to address community concerns in the region.”