Berlin Food Processing Factory Causing Big Stink In Town

BERLIN, CT — Folks are creating a big stink about a local food recycling company that some claim is doing just that.

But for that issue to be resolved, according to the Town of Berlin, locally-based Bright Feeds needs to build a larger exhaust chimney at the 76 Fuller Way site in Berlin.

The town earlier this month issued an update on the saga, one that doesn't seem ready to be put to rest.

That's because the Berlin Zoning Board of Appeals Dec. 12 denied a variance application by Bright Sun to build an 85-foot chimney to tower over the 40-foot processing facility.

Bright Sun takes food waste and turns it into animal feed for agricultural uses.

But, town officials said, this has caused some in Berlin to notice a putrid smell associated with the process.

Since the town's zoning regulations limit industrial chimneys to 55 feet, building a larger one requires a variance from the ZBA, which Bright Feeds failed to get on Dec. 12.

For now, Bright Sun is looking to utilize what's called a "thermal oxidizer" to try and cut down on the smell, a process tentatively slated to begin in February or March 2025.

Meanwhile, Bright Sun, according to the town, is also looking to work with Berlin regarding noise complaints at the site as well.

"The town and town council remain committed to addressing these issues and will continue to monitor the situation closely," wrote the Town of Berlin earlier this month.

"Efforts will remain focused on ensuring compliance with both odor and noise regulations for the benefit of the community."