MADISON, NEB. — After receiving news that USDA plant inspectors did not report for work at Tyson Foods’ pork production plant in Madison, Neb., on Jan. 15, Representative Mike Flood (R-Neb.) wrote a letter to the agency about his concerns as the state works with difficult winter weather conditions.

“Let me be clear, this is unacceptable and must be remedied immediately,” Flood wrote in his letter. “FSIS inspectors are essential employees; they are integral to ensuring consumer safety and disease prevention. Importantly, these inspectors are required for the operation of meat and poultry processing facilities across the country. Without FSIS inspectors, the plant shuts down and the meat and poultry supply chain stops. Such a disruption would severely impact food access, product cost and livestock production.”

Flood also noted the pork industry’s importance to Nebraska’s agricultural economy where the state finishes over 5.43 million hogs per year and returns more than $1.06 billion in cash receipts.

“The safety of Nebraskans is my top priority and I understand the importance of taking precautions in light of challenging weather. However, state and communities in the area are taking the necessary steps to allow essential employees to return to work,” Flood said. “If our communities can show up to work, the USDA can too. Our pork producers are ready and waiting; our plant wants to operate; the USDA must step up to the plate and fulfill its mission to serve rural America.”

According to Flood’s letter, Nebraska’s pork industry and related activity support 17,866 jobs and more than $978 million in personal income as of 2021.

FSIS provided MEAT+POULTRY with a response following Flood's letter being sent to Secretary Vilsack.

"FSIS routinely coordinates with establishments, including in this instance, in advance of any severe weather situations to establish a plan that considers both the safety of establishment and FSIS in-plant personnel and inspection needs," the agency said in a statement.  "FSIS and the establishment were in communication and agreed that on January 15, FSIS would provide an inspector for the processing side of the establishment but no slaughter operations would occur due to hazardous driving conditions. The establishment returned to full operations today, January 16."

 A report by News Channel Nebraska stated that roads were "still dicey" on Jan. 15 with Highway 32 west of Madison considered "impassable".