Prisoners Treated For Food Poisoning Symptoms; Maggots Found In Kitchen Equipment

JACKSON (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say about 30 Michigan prison inmates have been treated for symptoms consistent with food poisoning.

Symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, headaches and fatigue were reported starting Saturday, a day after maggots and fly larvae were discovered at one food serving line at Parnall Correctional Facility in Jackson.

The Michigan prison system's food contractor, Philadelphia-based Aramark Correctional Services, said there's no evidence linking the discovery of the maggots to the reported illnesses. Spokeswoman Karen Cutler said the maggots were found before food was served.

Corrections Department spokesman Russ Marlan said officials don't believe maggots got into the food, but called it a "serious and significant sanitary issue."

Aramark was hired in December as part of a cost-cutting move. Since taking over, Aramark has come under fire for employees smuggling in contraband and fraternizing with inmates. In March, the food service giant was fined $98,000 for various violations.

MORE: Prison Food Vendor Fined For Inappropriate Contact With Inmates, Menu Problems

Union Says Prison Security Weakened By Private Food Contractor

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