USDA : Since 2004 , the U.S. Department of Agriculture has required that cattle be able to walk to slaughter after an inspection by a USDA veterinarian -- largely as a precaution against bovine spongiform encephalopathy , or mad cow disease . The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the nation’s chief food safety and nutrition regulatory agency. Critics say no downer cattle should be allowed into food supply .
USDA : The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the nation’s chief food safety and nutrition regulatory agency. Critics say no downer cattle should be allowed into food supply .