From: Lisa Iyer [L.H.Iyer@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, January 09, 2001 1:13 PM
To: FDADockets@oc.fda.gov

To:  U.S. Food & Drug Administration
Re:  Docket Number 98P-0151/CP1
 
This letter is to request that the FDA grant Petition 98P-0151/CP1 to prohibit the slaughter of downed animals.  This action is needed to protect human health and to prevent needless animal suffering.  Because downed animal meat poses an increased health risk to consumers, the USDA has stopped accepting meat from downers for federal programs.  Downed animals cannot be moved humanely, and are typically pushed with tractors or dragged with chains, resulting in broken bones, abrasions and torn ligaments.  Any humane individual who watches the suffering of such an animal would conclude that this cruelty is totally unacceptable.  With better care and handling, industry experts estimate that 90% of downed animal cases can be prevented.  Granting this petition and thus removing the market for downed animals will provide the needed incentive for the industry to prevent downed animals in the first place.  
 
Cordially,
Dr. Lisa H. Iyer
Ashok V. Iyer