COLD SPRING, Minn. — The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office released information on June 6 about 26 people being transported to the hospital following a chemical spill at the Pilgrim’s poultry processing plant in Cold Spring, Minn.

According to the police bulletin, a container of peracetic acid spilled inside the facility, which led to the state duty officer being notified. Law enforcement confirmed the spill was contained inside the plant.

Following initial assessments, 26 employees were transported to the St. Cloud Hospital for further treatment of minor injuries.

“The facility was evacuated, and out of an abundance of caution 26 team members were transported to the hospital to be evaluated,” a Pilgrim’s Pride spokesperson told MEAT+POULTRY on June 6. “Twenty-five people have since been released, and all are expected to be discharged today. We appreciate the quick response and assistance of first responders. The plant is currently closed while the area is cleaned up, and the facility is expected to be open and operating normally tomorrow (June 7).”

According to information from the US Department of Agriculture, peracetic acid, also known as peroxyacetic acid, is used by the food and beverage industries, as well as healthcare facilities, as an antimicrobial agent, surface cleaner and sanitizer.