New meat rules need to change
I have recently learned of a new meat inspection regulation from an article written by Nancy Whelan in our local paper (The News, Oct. 30).
I totally agree with her comments that government is making rules for a non-existent problem, creating hardship for the independent farmer, and taking away our choice as consumers. There is no urgency or health problem regarding locally raised and butchered meats, so why do we need this government interference.
Who really benefits from this new regulation? Without any genuine health concerns, it would appear it is the corporations who put the pressure on government to cut out their competition.
The answer that the government wants us to hear is that it is borne out of their concern for our health. I would suggest it is for their political health.
My family has purchased locally grown meat, as well as vegetables, fruits and unpasteurized honey wherever we have lived in British Columbia to enjoy the taste and quality and to eat as healthily as possible, which in turn supports our local farmers.
With the exception of some meat, many of these items are obtained at the area grocery stores and seasonal fruit/vegetable stands.
Isn’t it wonderful to have that choice knowing that more and more of our foods are subject to genetic modifications, doses of antibiotics to ward off disease in large, closely raised animal and fish populations, and irradiated to kill bacteria.
And what about the move toward buying within 100 miles of home to help reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions? Now, more than ever before, it is important that our local farmers be encouraged (not penalized) to keep producing healthy, natural foods, and especially, meat.
If you are as concerned about this as I am, then get your keyboards, pens and paper in action to get this changed. Nancy’s column lists these websites: www.okshuswapgreens.ca and www.fooddemocracy.org for more information.
Send letters to newspapers and please write or email your MLA. There is a list of e-mail addresses on www.leg.bc.ca/mla (or do a google search of list of BC MLAs) to let them know you strongly disagree with this regulation.
D. Underwood
Parksville
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