Residents living near Huy Fong's new 626,000-square-foot facility, which opened last year in Irwindale, Calif., have complained of noxious fumes. The city sued in state court to close down the operation, which would halt production at the facility.
The city claims that fumes generated by the plant's processing of chili peppers have caused eye and throat irritation and headaches among residents.
In a court filing, Chief Executive David Tran said the peppers used in his company's sauces are harvested from September to November each year.
Halting processing now would result in spoiled produce, a shortage of product in coming months and financial losses to the company and the reduction of its work force.
The filing also said the company has augmented air-filtration equipment at the facility, and that the plant's construction followed all rules and regulations that ensure the public health, safety and welfare.
The company's other, smaller factory, in the nearby city of Rosemead, has operated since 1986 without complaint.
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