Feb 22 2008
By: Leticia
So there I was yesterday, sitting in my World Agriculture and Food Problems class yesterday, and the teacher brought up for discussion the recent news about the beef recall of 143 million pounds of beef stemming from the findings of Humane Society of the United States undercover video. Well, after hearing a few of my class mates’ pledges to never eat beef again, I raised my hand to give them our side of the story.
As a person who is deeply rooted in the agriculture industry, I assure you that our primary concern is the well being of our animals. At a young age, my parents instilled in me a love and respect for the animals that we raise. Ultimately, I know that we are producing a product for you, the consumer. The process to deliver you high quality American beef requires several steps and people. It is a team effort, and everyone should be and IS held accountable for the actions they take in the process. Although it is very sickening to see even one case of abuse and cruelty, I ask you, do you think that this was the only video made by the HSUS? Probably not. So how many videos of packing plants that are following the regulations do you think they made to catch this one incident? I urge you not to lose hope or faith in the American beef industry. For hundreds of years we have worked to deliver you a high quality product that is backed by our guarantee of safety. The actions of the Hallmark/Westland Meat Company are very isolated. When I look back at this previous week to see what happened, I can release a sigh of relief to know that the USDA has worked hard and proven itself once again as an organization that is dedicated to food safety. They were efficient and diligent when they were called in to clean up a very dirty mess.
So, when you go home tonight, be assured that the beef you serve your family is just as safe today as it ever has been. The men and women who work to deliver you safe, wholesome products from pasture to plate work to serve you.
