Home / Business and Economy / Meatpacker Accused of Miscarriages Amidst Plant Noise
Meatpacker Accused of Miscarriages Amidst Plant Noise
27 Feb
Summary
- Prosecutors allege 77 miscarriages linked to plant noise.
- MBRF faces lawsuit over inadequate protection for pregnant workers.
- Company disputes data, awaits court defense presentation.
Labor prosecutors in Brazil are suing meatpacker MBRF, accusing the company of failing to safeguard pregnant workers at its Lucas do Rio Verde plant. Court documents reveal allegations of 77 miscarriages and 67 pregnancies at risk between 2019 and 2025, reportedly linked to workplace hazards such as excessive noise.
The lawsuit followed failed attempts to compel MBRF to relocate pregnant employees to quieter areas of the facility. Prosecutors are seeking 20 million reais in damages and immediate reassignment of pregnant workers from hazardous zones.
In addition to miscarriages, the complaint details 113 premature births and 71 medical leave episodes allegedly exacerbated by noise stress. Medical research suggests high noise levels can contribute to conditions like high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia in pregnant individuals.
MBRF stated it adheres strictly to Brazilian law and is committed to employee safety, asserting it provides certified noise protection equipment. The company also highlighted its support program for pregnant employees, which it claims has assisted over 13,000 women since 2017.
Prosecutors claim noise levels at the plant reached up to 93 decibels in some areas, significantly exceeding Brazil's regulatory limit of 80 decibels for pregnant workers. The plant currently employs approximately 4,800 people, including about 74 pregnant women.
