From: MsEdgbrook@aol.com
Sent: Friday, March 09, 2001 4:06 PM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket 98P-0151/CP1

Please grant petition 98P-0151/CP1 to prohibit the slaughter of downed 
animals.  Animals too sick or injured to stand should not be allowed to enter 
the human food chain.  Downed animals are typically pushed with tractors or 
dragged with chains, causing inhumane pain and suffering.  Downed animals are 
a small percentage of animals slaughtered, and stopping their marketing will 
cause no undue economic hardship.  Experts have estimated that 90% of downed 
animals can be prevented with better care and handling. IT SEEMS THAT THIS 
ISSUE IS CONTINUOUSLY BEING DEBATED.  LAWS HAVE BEEN PASSED AND THE MEAT 
INDUSTRY CONSTANTLY TRIES TO GET AROUND THEM.  FRANKLY, THE U.S. FOOD AND 
DRUG ADMINISTRATION MUST ENFORCE THE LAW AND DUE ITS DUTY TO THE CITIZENS OF 
THE COUNTRY.  ONCE AND FOR ALL, DOWNED ANIMALS CANNOT, AND MUST NOT, BE 
BROUGHT TO MARKET.  Irene Slater, 4228 E. Chaparosa Way, Cave Creek, AZ 85331