Source: PRESS RELEASE, 7/2/20

Following the introduction of the Requiring Assistance to Meat Processors for Upgrading Plants (RAMP-UP) Act NASDA CEO Dr. Barb Glenn issued the following statement:

“In the face of the novel coronavirus pandemic, expanding the ability of meat processors across the country to effectively fulfill consumer demand is critical. NASDA is pleased to see Congress introduce legislation designed to increase capability for meat processing while maintaining the stringent food safety standards consumers expect.

Increasing the supply of animal protein without compromising safety or health was a key need NASDA’s Meat Processing Working Group identified amid the pandemic. NASDA members will continue working side-by-side with our federal partners to support the COVID-19 recovery and develop solutions to agriculture’s most pressing challenges.”

Background
As part of the response to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, NASDA members convened a meat processing working group to address challenges in the meat supply chain. The working group met 8 times over 10 weeks. Members of the working group continue to meet and engage with Congress as well as the U.S. Department of Agriculture on strategies for enhancing the U.S. meat production system.