Delaware poultry plants are now listed as part of a revised policy that lists the ability of poultry processors to meet standards salmonella that better prevent possible outbreaks.
Food Dive reported the publication of the plans marks a change from the previous policy of identifying whole bird processors meeting standards that would better prevent outbreaks.
Recent outbreaks have focused on raw turkey and not chickens. There has also been concern on raw poultry being fed to pets.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture listed processors by a score of 1 to 3, with three listed as the lowest score. The Allen Harim site in Harbeson earned a 3, with Mountaire sites were listed as 1s. Perdue had 1 and 2 ratings. None of the three large poultry processors responded to a request for comment.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest called the chicken parts posting a step forward, since many consumers buy parts, rather than whole chickens. Science in the Public Interest took Perdue to task for having the bulk of its plants listed in the lower categories.
By contrast, Tyson, which has a site on the Delmarva Peninsula did not have one plant on the lowest tier.
Food Dive speculated that the listings would have a positive effect on the industry since consumers are seeking and may be willing to pay more for foods they believe to be safer and companies would be free to market their rating.
