ARLINGTON, VA — The Meat Institute today released the following statement about the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) plans to resume imports of Mexican cattle following an outbreak of New World Screwworm:

“USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins has provided steady, science-driven leadership by pairing innovative dispersal of sterile flies and significant federal investment to protect the U.S. livestock and poultry industry,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We support a careful, phased reopening of the border that reflects both vigilance and confidence in our response plans.

“Importing cattle from Mexico allows beef packers to better meet consumer demand given the tight supply of US cattle. We will continue to support efforts to retain heifers and expand the herd as the best way to address the high price of beef for consumers.”

About the Meat Institute

The Meat Institute represents the full community of people and companies who make the majority of meat American families rely on every day. The Meat Institute’s hands-on regulatory and technical expertise, proactive advocacy, unique convening power, collaboration within and beyond animal agriculture, and sector-leading continuous improvement initiatives drive relationships and resources that ensure meat continues to be a vital, trusted pillar of healthy diets and thriving communities for generations to come. To learn more, visit: MeatInstitute.org.