USDA to test ground beef in U.S. states with outbreaks of bird flu in dairy cows
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is stepping up its efforts to ensure the safety of the meat supply in states with outbreaks of bird flu in dairy cows. Ground beef samples at retail stores are being tested, with the USDA confident that pasteurization can effectively kill the virus.
In addition to testing ground beef, lactating dairy cows are now required to test negative for bird flu before being shipped across state lines. The USDA is also using PCR tests on beef samples to check for viral particles and conducting a study using a “virus surrogate” in ground beef to understand how cooking temperatures affect the virus.
Furthermore, beef muscle samples are being collected at slaughter facilities to determine the presence of viral particles in condemned dairy cattle. While bird flu was found in a lung tissue sample from an asymptomatic dairy cow, the USDA assures that the animal did not enter the food supply.
Colombia has taken precautions in response to the outbreaks, restricting the import of beef and beef products from U.S. states with bird flu cases in dairy cows. However, it is important to note that there have been no known cases of bird flu in beef cattle so far.
These proactive measures taken by the USDA and other countries help to safeguard the meat supply and prevent the spread of bird flu in dairy cows. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.
“Future teen idol. Hardcore twitter trailblazer. Infuriatingly humble travel evangelist.”
