January 31, 2014
US inspection service temporarily closes veal processing plant
Following the release of undercover video footage appeared to depict workers mistreating cattle, the USDA''s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) temporarily closed a New Jersey veal processing plant on January 24.
FSIS said the agency initiated an investigation after receiving five undercover video files of footage taken at the Catelli Brothers slaughter facility. The Humane Society of the US (HSUS) said it launched a legal complaint against the company and provided the footage. FSIS said the agency received the video files on January 24. The footage was taken from September 10 to October 31.
HSUS commended FSIS'' action, and called on the USDA to close what it calls a loophole that allows slaughter of downer veal cattle. Downer adult cattle cannot be slaughtered for human consumption. But under the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act, veal calves that appear to be non-ambulatory can be set aside and rested for potential slaughter later.
In a statement posted to the Catelli Brothers website, the company noted its "ethical obligation for the well-being of calves" in the company''s care.
"We are deeply concerned about the allegations that have been made regarding the care of calves at our facility," the company said. "Any mistreatment of animals at our facility is unacceptable, and our established practices strictly prohibit the processing of any downed calves."
The company said that they cooperating fully with USDA officials as they investigate the situation.