USDA Issues Final Non-Ambulatory Rule
March 20, 2009
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the final rule to amend the federal meat inspection regulations to require a complete ban on the slaughter of cattle that become non-ambulatory after passing initial inspection by Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspection program personnel.
The final rule requires all cattle that are non-ambulatory (downer) at any time prior to slaughter at an official establishment, including those that become non-ambulatory after passing ante-mortem inspection, be condemned and properly disposed of according to FSIS regulations.
The final rule is available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-5987.htm.
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