Chocolate Plant Where Worker Died Operating Illegally

Officials say Lyons & Sons cocoa processing facility in New Jersey where a worker fell into a vat of melting chocolate and died did not have a business license.

CAMDEN, N.J. (AP) -- Officials say a cocoa processing facility in New Jersey where a worker fell into a vat of melting chocolate and died was operating illegally.

Camden cited Lyons & Sons Inc. for not having a business license after Vincent Smith II died Wednesday. Authorities say the 29-year-old was hit by a paddle used to mix chocolate.

Company spokesman Kevin Feeley says it's a "misunderstanding" and Camden officials knew the firm was operating in the former Campbell Soup plant.

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the death.

The Philadelphia Inquirer also reports the federal Food and Drug Administration is monitoring the plant to make sure chocolate that came into contact with the victim does not get shipped.

More in Operations