More than 500,000 pounds of ground beef was recalled late last month after two people died and estimated 500 were sickened by an E. coli outbreak, according to
The New York Times.
The tainted beef came from a meat-packer in Ashville, N.Y. that reportedly stopped testing for E. coli two years ago at the request of beef suppliers. Surprisingly, E. coli testing is not required the Department of Agriculture. It's only recommended sans any legal enforcements for not doing it.
The recall has prompted Trader Joe's to stop sourcing its meat from the affected plant. The grocer also now wants its other suppliers to test all ground beef for the deadly bacteria.
Costco Wholesale is the only large national retailer that mandates E. Coli testing. Perhaps Costco can do so because it uses its own grinding facilities.
Too often it seems like the Department of Agriculture feels its responsibility is to protect processing plants and beef suppliers, not the American consumer.
Clark is an unabashed free-marketer, but he knows that there need to be some referees in place for capitalism to work optimally. The marketplace suffers when there's no cop on the beat. Consumers need to feel confident that the feds are on the case to make sure their food is safe.
Get a grip people and lets try to be , how how shall I say this, more reasonable? Sometimes I wonder where you all went to school. I conclude that thinking for yourself is not taught in most schools these days.