March 8, 2023

USDA extends pork production line speed programme

The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) has extended the expiring pork production line speed programme trial in the US until November 30, following several petitions by lawmakers, RFD-TV reported.

Under the trial programme, called the "New Swine Slaughter Inspection System (NSIS)", six approved pork processors are permitted to operate at line speeds exceeding the maximum line speed of 1,106 head per hour put into force on June 30, 2021.

Data is collected to measure the impact of the increased speed on factory workers.

The decision by the USDA to extend the trial programme was welcomed by the US National Pork Producers' Council (NPPC). They said the extension will give more time for the USDA to study the data and determine what are the best next steps.

The NPPC said it is important to ensure sufficient production capacity to better supply consumers, adding that they will continue collaborating with the government and the US Congress to find a long-term fix.

-      RFD-TV