Food Distribution Program: Substitution of Donated Beef and Pork With Commercial Beef and Pork

This notice announces the Food and Nutrition Service's (FNS) intent to continue a demonstration project through June 30, 2007, that allows selected processors to substitute commercial beef and pork for donated beef and pork supplied by the Department of Agriculture (the Department, or USDA).

Commercial beef and pork used in the demonstration project must meet the same specifications required of donated beef and pork. Processors wishing to participate in the demonstration project must submit proposals for FNS approval by April 30, 2006. The Department hopes to determine if allowing substitution of donated beef and pork will result in increased participation of processors, and provide a greater variety of processed end products to recipient agencies in a more timely manner and/or at lower costs.