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Changes in the marketplaceBy Travis W. Hoffman CSU Beef Quality Assurance Coordinator The beef industry, and everyone involved, has the responsibility to uphold the wholesomeness and integrity of merchandised beef products. In late May, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer announced the plan for a proposed rule to ban all non-ambulatory cattle from entering the U.S. food supply. This will remove the exception currently given to injured animals that are slaughtered at federally-inspected packing facilities following a satisfactory ante-mortem inspection. Last year, this exception was applied to less than 1,000 animals, or 0.003 percent of annual beef slaughter. The now proposed rule will no longer allow cattle with a broken leg or any other ailment making them non-ambulatory to be suitable for federally-inspected slaughter. It is certain that U.S. Department of Agriculture is enacting this strict new guideline in attempt to bolster consumer confidence in the safety of the nation's food supply. Whether you are for or against this new requirement, producer responsibility will become of even greater significance to consumer acceptability of beef. Schafer stated "This action sends a clear message to consumers in both domestic and in international markets that we will continue to uphold the highest standards to protect our food supply and deliver the highest-quality products." The United States has numerous precautions in place to provide assurances of safe products, but this is not a food safety issue. From the producer's standpoint, further regulations will amplify the need for proper culling in beef and dairy industries. Animal injuries are unavoidable, but we must focus on the well-being of animals and ensure that cattle sent to slaughter are healthy and will contribute to a safe food supply. Keep in mind that our beef reaches dinner tables throughout the world, and we must take pride in our cattle business by doing our part to ensure beef safety, quality, and integrity in the marketplace. 6/16/08 Date: 6/11/08
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