In 2011, the USDA bought 21 million lbs. of beef from Central Valley Meat, Hanford, Calif., for use in the national school lunch and other federal nutrition programs, according to the Associated Press.
Central Valley Meat Company is under investigation for alleged animal abuses following the release of undercover video footage taken by Compassion Over Killing. The video allegedly depicts dairy cattle being abused and non-ambulatory cows being forced to stand and walk. However, animal handling expert Dr. Temple Grandin reviewed the video and said that although there were some problems, the narration in the video could mislead viewers into thinking some things are happening that are not. Further, FSIS has yet to find any food safety violations.
Nevertheless, Irvine, Calif.-based In-N-Out suspended its supplier agreement with Central Valley Meat after learning about the USDA's investigation. Also, the New York Times reported that Costco Wholesale Corp. suspended its partnership with the company in light of the investigation.
