group of twenty U.S. lawmakers, led by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Representative Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), is intensifying efforts to establish a permanent framework for higher speeds on pork processing lines. The legislators recently penned a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, urging an extension of the trial period for increased line speeds, emphasizing its critical role in helping pork processors maintain market competitiveness.
Under the New Swine Inspection System (NSIS), the initial trial allowed pork plants to operate at “full operational capacity” until November 30. Citing the industry’s need for ongoing options in selling hogs and maintaining processing capacity, the lawmakers requested a second extension this year.
The letter not only appeals for the continuation of higher speeds but also advocates for the establishment of a “permanent solution” that enables pork processors to consistently function at full capacity, moving away from short-term trials. Grassley and Finstad cautioned that the absence of a more permanent policy could result in a detrimental bottleneck in the pork supply chain, potentially leading to the loss of contracts for pork producers and increased transportation costs.
While the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recently approved a 90-day extension for line speed trials, allowing processing of up to 1,106 head per hour as mandated by a 2021 court order, the lawmakers’ plea for a permanent speed increase remains unaddressed. The legislators highlighted concerns about potential contract losses and heightened transportation expenses if the NSIS rules are not extended further.
The USDA, in response to the lawmakers’ request, is expected to provide results from a study on the trials and outline measures in place to ensure the safety of pork plant workers. The ongoing efforts underscore the lawmakers’ commitment to supporting the pork industry and securing its position in the evolving market landscape.
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