Food Distribution Program: USDA's Canned Beef and Pork Can Be Improved
RCED-91-81
Published: May 13, 1991. Publicly Released: May 28, 1991.
Skip to Highlights
Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the quality of canned meat distributed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its food distribution program, focusing on: (1) perceived product acceptability; (2) comparability to other similar federal and commercial products; (3) quality assurance procedures; (4) procurement standards and specifications; and (5) alternatives for aesthetic or other product improvements.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Agriculture | The Secretary of Agriculture should explore the cost and benefits of revising the product specifications for USDA canned beef to require a boning and trimming inspection with adequate defect criteria, such as that included in the pre-1984 specifications, that will reduce the amounts of objectionable materials included in this product. |
USDA modified the material requirements and incorporated an examination for excluded material in canned pork in October 1990. In August 1990, the material requirements for canned beef were tightened and additional excluded material requirements are being incorporated.
|
| Department of Agriculture | To improve the physical characteristics of USDA canned beef and pork, the Secretary of Agriculture should explore the use of alternative processing and packaging alternatives, and consider adopting those that are most effective and cost-efficient. |
USDA agrees that alternative processing and packaging methods could improve the appearance of canned meat. However, USDA points out that costs must be considered before any changes can be justified. USDA did agree to a trial test of salt levels in its canned meat products.
|
| Department of Agriculture | To improve the physical characteristics of USDA canned beef and pork, the Secretary of Agriculture should revise product labels in conjunction with the Food and Drug Administration's nutrition labelling initiative to improve the content description and include nutrition information on the cans. |
USDA agrees that new labels can improve its canned meat products. New labels have been prepared that include an explanation on removal of fat, and that products are fully cooked in their own juices, and a ready-to-use recipe. These labels will be used on future canned meat purchases.
|
Full Report
Public Inquiries
Topics
Commercial productsFood and drug lawFood industryFood inspectionFood programs for childrenFood relief programsIndian landsLivestock productsNative AmericansQuality assuranceStandards evaluation