For Immediate Release                                              May 22, 2007

Contact James Hunt      (806) 358-3681      james@tcfa.org

CATTLEMEN SEEK OPEN BEEF TRADE
WITH OIE BACKING

     A prestigious international body today issued formal recognition that U.S. beef is safe for global trade - action that should open more markets to U.S. beef and beef products. 

     The decision by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) to classify the United States as a "controlled risk country for BSE" was approved unanimously during the OIE's 75^th General Session in Paris, France.

    "Cattlemen have worked extremely hard to make sure our product is protected from BSE.  With OIE confirming our long held position that our safeguards are sufficient, there is no legitimate scientific reason for any country in the world to deny their consumers access to U.S. beef," said TCFA Chairman Don McCasland.

    "The OIE has provided a solid argument for insisting that our trading partners permit total free and fair trade in beef," said McCasland.  He added that TCFA will continue encouraging U.S. government officials to push for the elimination of trade barriers.

     There are currently 86 countries that are either fully or partially opened to U.S. beef.  Of those countries, 53 accept bone-in products, and 30 accept product from animals over thirty months of age.  TCFA believes the OIE ruling demonstrates there is no valid justification for any country to refuse bone-in beef or to maintain cattle age restrictions on beef.

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