From: MBONK@baysideautomation.com
Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2001 3:12 PM
To: FDADockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: DOCKET NUMBER 98P-0151/CP1

Last year, the USDA announced a landmark policy to stop purchasing meat
from downed cows for the National School Lunch Program!

This development shows a growing consensus, even among industry and
government officials, that the marketing and slaughter of downed animals is
unacceptable.

Therefore I, herewith, urge the Food and Drug Administration to grant
petition 98P-0151/CP1 to prohibit the slaughter of downed animals.

The following points should be taken into consideration:

   *Animals who are too sick even to stand pose a health threat and should
   not be allowed to enter the human food chain.

   *It is impossible to move downed animals humanely and they are typically
   pushed with tractors or dragged with chains - inhumane processes which
   cause injuries ranging from bruises and abrasions to broken bones and
   torn ligaments.

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

Regards,

Marliese Bonk
330 Castlegate Road
Pittsburgh PA  15221
Phone:  724.873.9412
Fax:      724.873.9550
Mbonk@baysideautomation.com