Home / Disasters and Accidents / LA Cold Storage Fire Creates Rotting Food Biohazard
LA Cold Storage Fire Creates Rotting Food Biohazard
26 Jun
Summary
- Millions of pounds of food spoiled after a fire at a cold storage facility.
- Officials are racing to remove 85 million pounds of food before it becomes a biohazard.
- Residents are advised to stay indoors and use air purifiers due to strong odors.

Millions of pounds of food are being removed from a fire-damaged cold storage facility in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. Approximately 85 million pounds of frozen and imported food, including meat, poultry, seafood, and bread products, were stored inside when the fire occurred. Remediation teams are working rapidly to dispose of the spoiled goods.
Officials are concerned that the decaying food could become a biohazard, releasing strong odors and potentially attracting pests like rats. Charred food left without refrigeration for about a week is contributing to the smell.
Health authorities are advising nearby residents to stay indoors and use air purifiers to minimize exposure to the odors. Sensitive individuals may experience temporary symptoms like headaches and nausea. Steps are also being taken to limit odor spread during the cleanup operations.