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Further USDA Information on Central Valley Meat Investigation

EO Guidance Document #
FNS-GD-2012-0054
FNS Document #
SP47 CACFP23 SFSP17-2012
Resource type
Policy Memos
Guidance Documents
Resource Materials
PDF Icon Policy Memo (37.00 KB)
DATE: August 31, 2012
POLICY MEMO: SP47 CACFP23 SFSP17-2012
SUBJECT: Further USDA Information on Central Valley Meat Investigation
TO: Regional Directors
Special Nutrition Programs
All Regions
State Directors
Child Nutrition Programs
All States

This memo provides additional information regarding the Central Valley Meat investigation described in memorandum SP43 CACFP22 SFSP16-2012. USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service’s (FSIS) investigation has concluded that there is no evidence to support the allegation that a downer cow was slaughtered and entered the food supply, and that a food safety violation occurred as a result. In addition, FSIS has concluded its evaluation of the extensive corrective action plan submitted by Central Valley Meat Company to correct recent humane handling violations and has permitted Central Valley Meat to resume processing. As a result, the company will resume packing and shipping existing meat orders purchased by USDA for the National School Lunch Program.

Please share this information with all local program operators.

Cynthia Long
Director
Child Nutrition Division
Laura Castro
Director
Food Distribution Division
Page updated: April 07, 2023

The contents of this guidance document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.