About 143 million pounds of beef from Chino, California-based meat packing company was recalled; the largest beef recall in history. The company was cited after a videotape obtained by the Humane Society was released that showed sick cows beaten and prodded into a slaughterhouse.
Such "downer" cows were forbidden by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to be used as food, primarily since they might introduce illnesses like mad cow disease into the food cycle.
The recall covers a two-year distribution period, which will have difficulties in getting connection with any illegal practices of the Chino packing company.
Officials warned firms to discard beef purchased prior to February 17 or make sure that the retailer's shipment did not come from Westland-Hallmark. However, it is assumed that most of the recalled beef has already been consumed.
