April 21, 2008

US meat sector among the most transparent in the world

The US meat industry is one of the most transparent in the world as Food Safety and Inspection Service records are accessible to media, policymakers and consumers, J. Patrick Boyle, American Meat Institute president, said.

Boyle announced his observation on April 17 before the House Oversight Committee's Domestic Policy Subcommittee.

The relevant role of cameras in meat plants in the future was also emphasized by Boyle.

Currently, AMI members use internal surveillance to monitor everything ranging from food safety to animal welfare jobs.

Using cameras should remain an individual company decision, Boyle said.

Furthermore, the institute was launching a new online video channel, the Meat News Network, where accurate videos including some that represent typical conditions in meat plants will be posted.

AMI will also add new videos on other timely topics to enhance relationship with 95 percent of the US consumers.