MFU Backs Tester's Bill To Halt Brazilian Beef Imports

Great Falls, MT - In response to two reported cases of mad cow disease (BSE) in animals and now two potential cases in humans, Montana Farmers Union (MFU) is calling for an immediate suspension of Brazilian beef imports. In September, Brazil announced two cases of BSE were detected in June, a significant delay in reporting that jeopardized the health of Americans. This is not the first time that Brazil has delayed reporting cases of BSE. In 2012, 2014, 2019, similar incidents occurred. This week, Brazil may have found at least two humans with prion disease. Prion disease can affect both humans and animals and is sometimes spread to humans by BSE derived from contaminated meat.

MFU President Walter Schweitzer has been calling for a stop of Brazilian beef imports and legislation to tackle the issue since two BSE contaminated cows were discovered in Brazil. “Brazil has an awful track record of reporting BSE cases. It is time to put a stop to their reckless behavior. The root of the problem is the lack of Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL) for beef and pork. Consumers have no way of knowing if the beef they purchase comes from Brazil or not,” said Schweitzer. “The timing is perfect for Senator Tester to introduce a bill to suspend Brazilian Beef Exports, especially with the potential occurrence of two suspected cases of BSE in humans. We appreciate Senator Tester standing up for the American consumer by introducing this legislation.”