Despite Shutdown Slaughter Inspections Continue

As the government shutdown continues, consumers may be concerned what USDA services are and are not being offered.  Acting Deputy Undersecretary for Food Safety Carmen Rottenberg FSIS inspectors are on-site at every plant for slaughter facilities during all hours of operation."

"Literally, a plant can't operate in a slaughter operation without our government inspectors there on duty. And for processing establishments, the government inspectors have to be there once per production shift, and that is statutory."

She notes helping to ensure that meat processing activities can continue is one reason USDA inspectors are essential, protecting American food safety is another.

"The job of FSIS inspectors is to make sure that all domestic and imported meat, poultry and processed products are safe and wholesome."

There are more than 7,000 FSIS inspectors nationwide.

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