From: Krgray1@aol.com
Sent: Friday, March 02, 2001 11:11 AM
To: FDADockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket # 98P-0151/CP1
Dear Sir/Madam: 

I am writing to inform you of my concern regarding petition (Docket # 
98P-0151/CP1) which is currently before the Food and Drug Administration to 
prohibit the slaughter of 'downed' animals. As you know this petition stems 
from the 
basis that animals too sick to even stand should not enter the human food 
chain, due to the increased risk of bacterial contamination, and evidence 
that some downed cows may even be afflicted with a form of bovine spongiform 
encephalopathy, or "Mad Cow Disease".  I think it is in the interest of the 
FDA to ensure our food supply is safe and allowing downed animals to be 
included in the food supply can cannot be safe for human consumption. 

   I am also concerned about the treatment of the downed animals because 
there is no humane way to move a downed animal; they are typically dragged 
with chains, or lifted with a forklift, causing suffering and further 
injuries. 

    Downed animals comprise a  very small percentage of animals slaughtered, 
and prohibiting their marketing would cause no undue economic hardship. 

     There is growing consensus for such a prohibition, even among livestock 
industry and government officials. The USDA has already instituted a policy 
of refusing to accept meat from downed animals for the National School Lunch 
Program, and numerous beef, dairy, and pork industry representatives have 
voiced support for such a prohibition. 

  Please consider granting Docket # 98P-0151/CP1 to ensure a safe food supply 
and to improve conditions for animals used in food production.  Your 
consideration is greatly appreciated. 

Thank you. 

Sincerely, 


Kristina A. Gray