USDA Forbids Meatpackers to Use "downer" Cattle

Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a ban on meatpackers slaughtering cows too sick or weak to stand. This change comes in the wake of the nation's largest beef recall. It would eliminate an exception that allows a small number of so-called "downer" cattle into the food supply if they pass veterinary inspection. Those cows pose increased risk for mad cow disease and other infections. These cattle are already mostly banned from slaughter, but under current rules, they can be allowed into the food supply.