Detractors say workers, already facing COVID-19, face elevated risk for injuries.

Three workers allege Maid-Rite Specialty Foods didn’t address social distancing and face coverings during the pandemic.

The base wage rate at the meat processing company is now $18 per hour.

The association’s president praised the company’s efforts to protect plant workers.

Spikes in positive cases during April and May topped 17,000 among industry employees.

The groups also express need for federal role in distribution in a letter to President Trump.

Testing results identified 371 workers who tested positive for the virus.

The group also asked for stricter enforcement of guidelines at plants.

The company stated that previously reported numbers were outdated and inaccurate.