BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Maggots and egg larvae found on beverage products at five Bethlehem schools prompted officials to dispose of deliveries at every school, the superintendent said.
Superintendent Joseph Roy sent a letter to parents Monday informing them of the discovery.
- The maggots and egg larvae were discovered last week
- At least five schools were affected but deliveries at all schools were destroyed
- The Bethlehem Health Bureau is assisting
In a few instances, maggots attached to the outside of drink cartons ended up on student trays, he said.
The maggots and larvae were found on crates and pallets received last week over several days, Roy said.
So far, he said in the letter, five schools have been affected — Freedom High School, Nitschmann and East Hills middle schools, and Freemansburg and Thomas Jefferson elementary schools.
Officials disposed of the milk and juice products at all schools after the discovery of the issue, according to the letter.
Roy said the school district is working with dining services manager Aramark to conduct quality assurance inspections at all schools. He said the Bethlehem Health Bureau was also consulted to review steps being taken by Aramark.
"The health and safety of our students and staff must always be a top priority," Roy said in the letter. "Food safety must be a given. We expect the same high standards from our food and beverage vendors."
