Sparks Study on Packer Ownership Ban


Sen. Chuck Grassley issued the following comment in response to a study released today by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and the National Pork Producers Council that claims a ban on packer ownership of livestock would cost their industries approximately $7 billion.

"Rural America will pay the ultimate price if Congress doesn't pass this amendment and say that independent producers should be able to compete in the marketplace. If we don't act this year in this farm bill, then it will be too late. The big packers will inevitably kill off the independent producers by manipulating the market so they can ultimately control the entire industry, all according to their game plan. The release of this kind of study -- bought and paid for by the industry that stands to gain everything -- shows just how intent the packers are on taking total control from the feed lot to the packing house. Anyone with enough money can hire folks to rationalize that pigs will fly someday."