NEW YORK Amid reports of rats, mice and worms infesting feeding facilities and other components of the complex, officials at United Nations' headquarters here have reportedly denied access to health inspectors, and may have done so for at least 20 years.
According to the online news source NewsMax.com, the U.N.'s Office of Legal Affairs has blocked an attempt by New York City to enter the facilities and inspect for safety-code violations. Citing U.N. maintenance workers as sources, a report on the NewsMax site said mice droppings have been spotted inside open ovens in the main kitchen and that rust was seen inside kitchen equipment and food-storage areas. The report could not be independently confirmed. Foodservice contractor Aramark Corp. declined to comment by presstime, as did the U.N.
The four-building complex houses six dining facilities, including the upscale Delegates Dining Room, that serve more than 5,000 people per day. Philadelphia-based Aramark has handled the foodservice operations since 2003.
The U.N. is located along the East River in Manhattan, but it is technically international territory. Despite that distinction, however, the facility is not exempt from health or safety inspections, according to observers.
The reported rat infestation follows media reports of rodent spottings and other safety violations at a number of restaurants here, including a Taco Bell-KFC combo unit operated by franchisee ADF Cos. of Fairfield, N.J.