US Beef Industry to Tackle E.coli Bug
US - Despite recent recalls, the US beef industry is investing in research and new technologies to ensure beef safety and prevent E. coli contamination, claim industry representatives.
20 August 2008
1 minute read
The Beef Industry Food Safety Council (BIFSCo), which includes cattle producers, feeders, processors and scientists as well as retailers and foodservice operators, said the beef industry invests $350m annually in beef safety efforts.
According to FoodProductionDaily, BIFSCO said that its objective is to develop industry-wide, science-based strategies to ensure beef safety and win the battle against E. coli O157:H7.
E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhoea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. Children, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are the most susceptible.
Michelle Rossman, director of beef safety research, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, said that US beef producers alone have invested more than $27m since 1993 in beef safety research.
She told FoodProductionDaily.com that BIFSCo continues to study new interventions and improve existing technologies as part of a comprehensive safety system from production to consumer.
“There is still a lot we need to know about E. coli to completely eliminate it. Therefore, beef safety research continues to be one of the industry’s highest priorities. We believe, and science proves, that one of the best ways to combat foodborne pathogens, like E. coli O157:H7 is with validated interventions,” added Rossman
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