Georgia Dept of Agriculture Warns Consumers Kerosene Sold at Fitzgerald Store Should Not Be Used, Issues Stop Sale Notice

Today, the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced the discovery of contaminated kerosene being sold at Planters Oil #1 located at 803 East Central Avenue in Fitzgerald, Ga. The kerosene is possibly contaminated with gasoline and has the potential to cause an explosion or fire if used in home appliances. The Department is instructing consumers who may have purchased kerosene from this location on or after October 17, 2023, to avoid using this product in kerosene heaters or lamps.

“The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Fuel & Measures team works tirelessly to inspect fuel quality and ensure consumers across Georgia receive a safe, quality product at the pump,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “We are asking any and all Georgians who may have purchased this contaminated fuel to use the utmost caution and avoid using it in their homes. Georgians can return the contaminated fuel to the store for a full refund.”

The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Fuel & Measures team discovered the contaminated fuel during a routine inspection and placed a “stop-sale” order on the kerosene pump at the store. The pump will remain closed until the tank and lines have been cleaned and a new shipment of Kerosene has been tested and approved by the Department. Consumers who have purchased this fuel can return it to the store for a refund.