Cocoa plant where worker died was operating illegally; business says it’s a misunderstanding

Cocoa plant where worked died didn’t have license

CAMDEN, N.J. — Officials say a cocoa processing center in New Jersey was operating illegally when a worker fell into a vat of melting chocolate and died.

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 mixing paddle.

Company spokesman Kevin Feeley says that it’s a misunderstanding and that 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 Food and Drug Administration is monitoring the plant to make sure chocolate that came into contact with the victim does not get shipped.