USDA Seeks Bids for Lamb Leg Buy

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released its third invitation in 2010 to American lamb companies to sell lamb products for use in federal food and nutrition programs. The offer applies to lamb leg roasts and lamb shoulder chops.

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) encouraged the authorization to purchase a minimum of $2 million in section 32 funds through calendar year 2010 to provide more confidence in the industry.

Offers must be received by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service before 1:30 p.m., CDT, Tuesday, Sept. 14. Acceptances will be announced by midnight, Friday, Sept. 24. Shipments will be made between Nov. 16 and Nov. 30.

ASI President Glen Fisher (Texas) complimented USDA for offering the latest round of invites noting if filled completely, it would amount to 216,000 pounds of lamb to help keep markets strong back to the farm and ranch gate.

Additional program information can be accessed at www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/ams.fetchTemplateData.do?template=TemplateR&page=ORMAnnouncementPage2.