Hispanic temporary workers at HelloFresh's Newark, New Jersey, facility were allegedly denied bathroom breaks for hours, forcing some to urinate on themselves, according to a proposed amended class-action complaint. Former worker Luis Penafiel alleges that the restrictions contributed to urinary incontinence and infections, while supervisors allegedly monitored bathroom visits and restricted workers' access to toilets.
The lawsuit accuses HelloFresh and three staffing agencies of racial discrimination, intimidation, physical abuse, and sexual harassment. HelloFresh denies the allegations, saying an internal investigation found them to be without merit. A state court hearing on the proposed amended complaint is scheduled for 23 October.
