Daviess Co. KY Schools Toss Recalled Beef

Beef recalled by the USDA this weekend has been found in school cafeterias throughout the tri-state. The recalled beef was found in schools in Jasper, southwest Dubois, and Mt.Vernon. Now school officials in Daviess county, Kentucky say they are in the process of destroying 70 cases of taco meat supplied by the Hallmark/Westland meat company. The U.S. Department of agriculture announced the recall Sunday. But according to Daviess county school officials, the meat involved has been put aside since last month. They say theyve done everything to keep lunch for students throughout the area safe. It is the biggest meat recall in U.S. history. Affecting food served in at least 17 school cafeterias in Kentucky, including this one in Daviess county. Food Services Director for the county Lisa Sims says the meat products were first put on hold. But Sunday the Kentucky Department of Agriculture asked that they destroy them. They included 127 cases of culinary standard baked ziti and 70 cases of JTM taco meat now marked for destruction. But the meat targeted originally came from Hallmark/Westland meat company where some of the cattle slaughtered for meat were abused and too weak to stand. The recall goes back to meat produced February 2006. Meat that was probably already eaten by students in many of the schools. What the recall hasnt affected, is the serving of all beef products. On the menu of College View Middle School, burgers and fries. Teacher Darlene Runyon says she not alarmed. Meanwhile, Sims says she is confident that the food now served to students is safe. But she is sending a letter to parents who may be concerned. Now USDA officials have said they believe that possibility that anyone could get sick from the meat is remote. And are currently downplaying any major health risks.