“The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) takes this matter very seriously a...

“The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) takes this matter very seriously and encourages a quick and firm response from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“USMEF reiterates that U.S. beef is safe and Japanese consumers are not at risk. While backbone, or vertebral column with spinal cord removed, is not a food safety risk, it is not allowed for export under our agreement with Japan. We are committed to the enforcement of beef export verification programs for Japan and other nations.

“USDA is conducting a thorough investigation, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns has ordered enhanced inspection requirements and training at every plant in the United States approved for beef export, and has dispatched a team of USDA inspectors to Japan to ensure shipments awaiting approval are in compliance with the export agreement.

“USMEF, from offices in the United States and Japan, stands willing to assist USDA, and U.S. and Japanese trade in any way possible to ensure swift resolution of this matter and to ensure full U.S. compliance to the export agreement with Japan.”

The USDA Statement can also be read online.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry and is funded by USDA, exporting companies, and the beef, pork, lamb, corn, sorghum and soybean checkoff programs.

– USMEF –