S.D. Farmers Union Appreciates Senators’ Response to Lifting Brazilian Beef Ban

South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) appreciates the efforts made by 15 U.S. Senators, including Thune and Rounds, to hold the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) accountable.

In a February 28 letter, Senators expressed concerns over the USDA-FSIS February 20 decision to lift the U.S. ban on Brazilian raw beef imports, noting public health concerns, poor sanitary conditions and animal health issues. The letter also calls for a complete verification of certified Brazilian processing facilities, acknowledging “Brazil’s multiple failed attempts to uphold equivalent food safety standards.”

“We appreciate and support these Senators who showed cohesiveness and non-partisanship toward an issue important to farmers and ranchers as well as the consumers we serve,” said Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

SDFU is one of South Dakota’s largest agriculture organizations, representing more than 18,000 family farmers, ranchers and agriculture supporters.

In addition to concerns, in the letter Senators ask U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue several pointed questions which focus on how the USDA-FSIS plans to ensure Brazil’s compliance with U.S. food safety standards.

“This letter asks the right questions,” said Sombke, a fourth-generation farmer. “We must not compromise our consumers’ safety or the U.S. beef industry. Thank you, Senators, for holding Secretary Perdue and the USDA-FSIS accountable.”

A complete copy of the letter can be read at www.sdfu.org. To learn more about how SDFU supports family farmers and ranchers, visit www.sdfu.org.