Attorney General Kwame Raoul has initiated legal action against Prestige Feed Products LLC, accusing the company of contributing to air and noise pollution through its operations in Mount Prospect, Illinois. The lawsuit, filed in Cook County Circuit Court, addresses complaints from nearly 150 residents who have reported over 1,000 instances of unpleasant odors since June 2023.
Raoul stated, "Residents in the community surrounding Prestige should be able to enjoy their lives and homes without having to endure the foul odors coming from the company’s operations." He emphasized the need for Prestige to adhere to Illinois' environmental regulations.
The facility in question processes raw soy and cheese-based materials into animal feed ingredients. Complaints describe a strong smell reminiscent of burnt cheese affecting local households and schools. As a result, some residents have been compelled to keep windows shut and limit outdoor activities.
Inspections by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) in July 2023 and November 2024 confirmed these odors. An odor assessment conducted by an environmental consulting firm identified elevated levels of Butyric Acid at multiple sites around the facility. This compound is known for its potent odor.
James Jennings, Acting Director of the IEPA, remarked on the necessity for even small facilities like Prestige Feed to comply with state regulations. "Illinois EPA referred this case to the Illinois Attorney General’s Office to require action be taken by Prestige Feed to address ongoing odor complaints impacting local residents," he said.
The lawsuit follows a referral from the IEPA. The Attorney General's office has historically enforced environmental laws in Illinois, securing financial recoveries from polluters and mandating environmental improvements where necessary. Residents are encouraged to report any environmental concerns via email.
The case is being managed by Supervising Attorney Ellen O’Laughlin along with Assistant Attorneys General Christina Scanlon and Jason Clark, under Senior Assistant Attorney General Nancy Tikalsky's supervision within Raoul’s Environmental Bureau.