Slaughterhouse operators can expect closer scrutiny from the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) in the months ahead. In a critical report, USDA's Inspector General warns federal beef inspectors aren't strictly following cattle screening rules, thereby increasing the risk of mad cow disease in the nation's meat supply. The report said it found cases where rules covering the slaughter of cattle are sometimes ignored.
Coca-Cola Enterprises President and CEO John Aim left the company in January. Lowry Kline, chairman of the board of directors, is serving as interim CEO.
Congress may consider streamlining rules covering food labels. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-MI) and Rep. Ed Towns (D-NY) have introduced the National Uniformity for Foods Act (H.R. 4167) that would create national, uniform food safety standards and warning requirements, replacing what backers call a patchwork of state and federal regulations that leave consumers and manufacturers at a disadvantage.
Hormel Foods is planning a $6 million expansion of its meat processing plant in Rochelle, IL. The 27,000-sq.-ft. addition will add space for production of a new line of microwaveable entrees.
Sen. Mike Enzi (R-WY), chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, is sponsoring legislation to make some OSHA safety initiatives voluntary for small factories.