STATEMENT BY CDFA SECRETARY A.G. KAWAMURA ON INHUMANE TREATMENT ALLEGATIONS AGAINST CALIFORNIA SLAUGHTERHOUSE

SACRAMENTO – “The allegations of inhumane handling last week against a California meat packing plant are deeply disturbing and warrant strict and prompt corrective actions by the federal government upon confirmation through investigation.

I am fully supportive of the actions taken by Secretary Schafer and the USDA to move quickly to address this issue and to rapidly conduct and complete such an investigation. State and federal law clearly prohibit the inhumane handling of all farm animals.  The serious allegations that involve ‘downer’ animals are of great concern as there has been significant work to assure the nation that these animals are kept from entering the food supply.

California and CDFA have a long history promoting the proper care and handling of all farm animals. We will continue to be passionate advocates for that cause.”