Proposed organic rule fuels disease concerns

Animal agriculture groups are voicing many concerns over USDA’s proposed rule to expand the National Organic Program to include animal-handling practices. Not only is the rule outside the statutory scope of the NOP, they say, but it is not based on science, has doubtful benefit and comes with a high cost to producers. One key concern to poultry and pork producers is the risk to animal and public health. The proposed standards focus on increased outdoor access, which the National Chicken Council and Pork Producers Council contend conflict with best management practices and will increase the likelihood and magnitude of disease outbreaks.