Home / Business and Economy / Campbell's Soup Scandal: Wastewater and 'Bioengineered Meat' Claims Emerge
Campbell's Soup Scandal: Wastewater and 'Bioengineered Meat' Claims Emerge
27 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Campbell's plant illegally discharged wastewater over 5,400 times.
- Ex-employee claims VP said soup contains 'bioengineered meat'.
- Company faces penalties for polluting Maumee River into Lake Erie.
Campbell's has admitted to illegally discharging wastewater over 5,400 times from its Napoleon, Ohio plant into the Maumee River between April 2018 and December 2024. The company faces environmental lawsuits and a trial scheduled for 2026 to determine penalties. Environmental groups allege these discharges contributed to harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie.
Adding to its troubles, a former employee released a recording allegedly capturing Vice President Martin Bally discussing 'bioengineered meat' in Campbell's soup. The employee claims he was fired after reporting these remarks. Campbell's spokesperson called the comments 'patently absurd' and stated Bally has been terminated.
The company maintains that its food ingredients are high-quality and sourced from USDA-approved suppliers, refuting claims of bioengineered meat. However, they are addressing the environmental violations, with a spokesperson stating efforts are underway to improve operations and comply with regulations.
