By Jamie Martin
The USDA is set to launch a comprehensive year-long study to test beef from former dairy cattle for the highly pathogenic avian influenza, known as bird flu or H5N1, before allowing their meat to enter the commercial market. This initiative follows three previous studies confirming the safety of the nation’s beef supply but aims to further solidify consumer confidence in food safety.
Under this new program, any cattle tested will be withheld from commerce until test results are verified, ensuring no contaminated meat reaches consumers. This move reflects the USDA’s commitment to safeguarding public health and maintaining stringent safety standards in the food supply chain.
The USDA, in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has confirmed the effectiveness of pasteurization in eliminating bird flu in dairy products through extensive testing across multiple states.
This reassurance comes alongside the implementation of a voluntary testing program for bulk milk, simplifying interstate movement of dairy cattle and alleviating financial pressures on farmers through substantial aid for those impacted by the outbreak.
As part of the ongoing surveillance, the presence of H5N1 has been monitored not only in cattle but also in wildlife and domestic animals, including cases in Colorado’s tightly integrated dairy communities.
These findings emphasize the importance of vigilant testing and monitoring, especially as seasonal changes prompt increased livestock movement and wild bird migrations, potentially raising the risk of further infections.
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Categories: National