FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: NMA

NATIONAL MEAT ASSOCIATION ENDORSES INDUSTRY COMPLIANCE WITH USDA ADVANCED MEAT RECOVERY REGULATIONS

OAKLAND, CA, February 21, 1997 -- Following the release of a USDA study on the composition and condition of Advanced Meat Recovery (AMR) product, National Meat Association (NMA) reiterated its support of USDA regulations governing AMR systems. NMA also indicated that it would be open to strengthening such regulations in the interests of consumers and to provide for public confidence in America's meat supply.

NMA also supports the government's decision to initiate regulations mandating effective removal of spinal tissue from AMR product. NMA surveyed its membership in April of 1996 and confirmed that voluntary removal of the spinal cord is already a standard procedure for the majority of NMA members. The remainder elected voluntarily at that time to begin removing the spinal cord..

NMA Executive Director Rosemary Mucklow said: "NMA members are ready to comply with USDA regulations that are supported by science and improve the safety and quality of meat for consumers."

National Meat Association is a non-profit trade association representing meat packers and processors, as well as equipment manufacturers and suppliers who provide services to the meat industry. The association, with over 600 members throughout the United States, includes membership in Canada, Australia and Mexico.

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