USDA proposes new downer cattle regulation

WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing a new regulation that would prohibit the slaughter of cattle that can't walk.

The rule would amend federal meat inspection regulations to initiate a complete ban if the cattle become non-ambulatory after initial inspection by the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service, an arm of the USDA.

The proposal would remove a provision that says FSIS inspectors will determine the disposition of cattle that become disabled after they have passed before slaughter inspection on a case-by-case basis. Under the new proposal, all cattle that can't walk at any time prior to slaughter, including those that become non-ambulatory after passing a before slaughter inspection, will be condemned and disposed of.

"To maintain consumer confidence in the food supply, eliminate further misunderstanding of the rule and, ultimately, to make a positive impact on the humane handling of cattle, I believe it is sound policy to simplify this matter by initiating a complete ban on the slaughter of downer cattle," Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer said.

Comments on the proposed rule, which must be received by Sept. 29, can be e-mailed to fsis.regulationscomments@fsis.usda.gov