Biggest Beef Recall in US History

Today the USDA ordered the recall of 143 million pounds of frozen beef from a California plant that supplies beef to school lunch programs. The recall will affect beef products dating to February 1, 2006, that came from Chino-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Company.

The reason for the recall? In a statement released by Secretary of Agriculture Ed Shafer, it was "because the cattle did not receive complete and proper inspection, Food Safety and Inspection Service has determined them to be unfit for human food and the company is conducting a recall."

It goes beyond lack of inspection. Two former employees were convicted of felony animal abuse. Video taken by animal-activists revealed injured and sick animals were shocked and kicked among other things.

There have been no illnesses associate with the potentially unfit meat. More than likely, most of it has already been eaten. While we don't have to worry about E coli or Mad Cow disease, it is really disturbing how badly "food" animals might be treated.

More About the Beef Recall

• Products Affected
• Questions and Answers

Today's Nutrition Tip

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