(WWJ) Michigan Pork and Beef Producers are encouraging residents to avoid "panic buying" meat products.
Leaders of the organization and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) said the state is taking quick action to ensure grocery stores have adequate pork and beef supply.
This comes as news reports pour in from across the country of processor shutdowns, sparking fear of a nationwide meat shortage.
According to a press release from Michigan State Police; leaders said Michigan's meat processors are currently in the process of installing safety measures for its workers. This process has "slowed" production.
"Everyone should recognize these changes will deliver long-term supply chain strength and, most importantly, improved safety for workers throughout the agricultural industries," Gary McDowell, Director of MDARD, said in the release.
George Quackenbush, Executive Director of the Michigan Beef Industry Commission, said the safety of workers is the first priority.
Bottom line: industry leaders said shoppers can expect to see enough meat products at grocery stores to go around.
"The only way we could encounter a problem is if consumers start panic buying. We want everyone to know that production in Michigan remains strong," Mary Kelpinski, CEO of Michigan Pork Producers Association, said in the release. "Don't buy more than you need."
The following is a joint statement on the status of Michigan's Meat Industry.
"COVID-19 has changed everything about how people come together. The meat industry, like everyone, has been adapting to these new challenges.
Michigan's farmers are among the most productive in the United States. Together, beef and pork farmers feed millions of Michiganders and Americans. Our processors lead the industry in food safety. We are committed to supplying wholesome meat products consumers rely upon.
The impact of this pandemic has not been easy, and it is not over. While Michigan's meat supply chain may experience occasional and temporary suspensions of operations, these breaks are necessary to implement new worker safety measures.
We are focused on prevention protocols to keep the food supply moving and ensure the health and welfare of employees and animals. We applaud the extraordinary steps the industry is taking to ensure worker safety, including COVID-19 testing, temperature checks, use of personal protective equipment and social distancing of employees.
One thing we can all do to help each other during this time is avoid panic-buying. Buying only what you need will ensure families across the U.S. can continue to enjoy the safe and nutritious protein they know and love.
The meat and livestock community is committed to delivering safe and high-quality products to consumers and is working diligently to return to full capacity as quickly and safely as possible."
