Where is the Beef?

Largest recall in U.S. history

143 million pounds of beef.

The recall of 143 million pounds of frozen beef, from a California slaughter house, is the subject of an animal-abuse investigation.

Most of the recalled beef has already been consumed, an estimated total of 37 million pounds and no illnesses reported, since October 2006 to date.

The recall will effect beef products dating from Feb. 1, 2006 to Feb. 17, 2008, that came from Chino-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Co..

An undercover video from the Humane Society of the United States surfaced. The video revealed evidence that Westland did not routinely contact its veterinarian when cattle became non-ambulatory after passing inspection, violating health regulations. Further, to demostrate such inhumane behavior can have dramatic consequences for slaughter plants which permit it.

Don't know how much product is out there right now and do not think there is a health hazard, but we do have to take this action.

Really, it is closing the barn door after the cows have gotten out. 37 million pounds eaten of 143 million pounds of beef, no illnesses nor contaminated meat reported, leaves 106 million pounds of beef to be located, only to be disposed of. Which is more inhumane? Reckon we will never know how much is actually recovered.

This is not an isolated case. It is so common that animals in this condition are known in the meat industry as “downer cattle".

All people, especially workers, in the food industry, should be held responsible for reporting animal abuse and any other harmful acts.

However, disposing of 106 million pounds of meat, from live animals, with no other evidence of it being contaminated, other than a video of inhumane treatment, is also animal abuse.

Corrective action can be taken without being wasteful. For example, test it and distribute to homeless and soup kitchens.

How much longer will we continue to test our luck with being irresponsible?

How do you lift a downed cow?

How much effort do you put forth to force a downed cow to it's feet?