WCPSS Removes Meat Recalled by USDA
February 18, 2008 - Some beef products that originated at the Westland Meat Packing Company cited in a US Department of Agriculture recall today were delivered to the Wake County Public School System and are being removed from WCPSS schools.Beef is procured by the USDA and allocated to local school districts through the NC Department of Agriculture.
WCPSS contracts with firms that process this meat, as well as meat it procures from other suppliers, into usable products, such as chili sauce for hot-dogs, spaghetti sauce, or beef patties.
Marilyn Moody, Senior Director of Child Nutrition Services, responded quickly to notifications by the USDA/NCDA and processing company notifications. WCPSS was alerted Feb. 4, 2008 about the USDA investigation and promptly set the meat aside, pending notification from USDA regarding disposition. WCPSS has some 1,500 cases of processed meat products that will be discarded as the NC Department of Agriculture directs. WCPSS will seek re-imbursement for the $94,500 costs of the meat and processing.
Child Nutrition Services staff adjusted daily menus to compensate for the lack of this beef and continue to supply students with nutritious, good tasting meals. The food children eat at school is safe.
You read more about the recall at the NC Department of Agriculture website.
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