Remember the government doesn't require that. This is an extremely important case that is being closely watched by consumer groups as well as the industry. The meat industry argues that the requirement to meet standards for raw meat and samonella is unfair and does not necessarily reflect how well they are running their plants. The consumer groups and an obviously retailers like McDonald's think it's very important and relevant to know how good a job plants are doing at eliminating dangerous microbes. Many groups are anxiously waiting to see how the Bush administration will weigh in this controversy.
Recalls are often too late.
Generally the test results showing a positive sample aren't known for at least a week. By that time, some of the meat is not only in a grocer's counter but already consumed. Under the old system, an inspector who saw a serious problem could actually stop the line and fix it. Under the new system, inspectors feel they have almost no authority to do that. Some suggest that that the laws are there, they are just not being carried out and that the USDA is afraid to take on these major meat companies.