USDA to list stores in meat recalls

WASHINGTON, July 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will begin listing retail stores carrying some meat and poultry products that have been recalled.

"The identity of retail stores with recalled meat and poultry from their suppliers has always been a missing piece of information for the public during a recall," Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer said. "People want to know if they need to be on the lookout for recalled meat and poultry from their local store and by providing lists of retail outlets during recalls, USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service will improve public health protection by better informing consumers."

The new rule covers Class I recalls involving a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or death for those with weakened immune systems, USDA said. A list of retail stores will be posted on the USDA's Food Safety Inspection Service Web site within three to 10 business days after a recall release is issued.

FSIS will not identify distribution centers, institutions or restaurants because they prepare food for immediate consumption without packaging that is identifiable or available to consumers, USDA said.