• If you are having problems logging in please use the Contact Us in the lower right hand corner of the forum page for assistance.

Ranchers.net

Today 6/14/2006 8:16:00 AM

Creekstone Asks Korea To Make Beef Export Decisions Plant By Plant


Creekstone Farms Inc., which prior to the closure of Asian markets to U.S. beef in 2003 was one of the country's leading exporters to Japan and South Korea, has asked that export decisions be made on a plant-by-plant basis to speed reopening of markets.

"We don't understand why there has to be a system-wide audit," said John Stewart, the company's chief executive.

J. Patrick Boyle, chief executive of the American Meat Institute, immediately fired back, saying that such a proposal would leave foreign markets in charge of certifying U.S. plants, which is USDA's job.

"USDA does not permit nor should it cede authority for listing and delisting plants to other nations," Boyle said.

Both Korea and Japan have hinted that more oversight of U.S. plants by their food safety authorities might grease the wheels to get trade with the United States moving again. South Korea has gone so far as to suggest fundamental changes to U.S. beef processing procedures, such as operating separate lines with separate tools for processing cattle over and under 30 months of age, and to segregate Canadian cattle from American cattle. A South Korean inspection team refused to approve seven of 38 plants inspected for those and other issues, and Stewart says that his company, which passed the inspection, should not be penalized because others did not.

"If 31 plants perform for Korea, why should seven plants hold up the whole process?" Stewart asked.



Source: Pete Hisey on Wednesday, June 14, 2006, Meatingplace.com
Top