Distiller MGP Ingredients suffers chemical spill

MGP Ingredients, one of the largest third party distillers in the US, has experienced a chemical spill at its plant in Atchison, Kansas, causing a number of people to suffer respiratory problems.

A chemical spill at MGP Ingredients’ Atchison plant caused a number of people to suffer respiratory problems

MGP, which also supplies specialty wheat proteins and starches, said a chemical release at about 8am on Friday morning (21 October) “resulted in emissions venting into the air”, while local reports claim a toxic cloud formed over the city.

Atchison officials said the emissions dispersed by 11am, but that a number of people had reported injuries – mostly respiratory problems. Some local reports claims that as many as 67 people were treated in hospital following the spill.

“MGP Ingredients has reported the event to the EPA and Kansas and local authorities, and is cooperating fully to investigate and ensure that all appropriate response actions are taken,” a statement from the company read.

“MGP has also engaged outside experts to assist the investigation and response.”

The company said that there was “no significant damage” to its Atchison plant as a result of the incident, while no other MGP facilities, including its distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, were affected.

Founded 75 years ago, MGP Ingredients produces distilled alcohol products and food ingredients at its Atchison headquarters, while distilled premium and aged products are created at its Lawrenceburg facility.

In March this year, the company reported an operating income increase of 97.7% following “great progress” in its strategic plan.