Chapter 1: Government Guidelines on Meat Washing

In recent years, both the CDC and USDA have recommended that individuals refrain from washing meat prior to cooking. They assert that rinsing meat can lead to the spread of harmful bacteria, particularly from the kitchen sink. The USDA aims to provide useful advice for those who spend considerable time preparing meals, particularly when it comes to brining a turkey. Their guidance suggests:

If you find it necessary to rinse a turkey and clean its cavity, first clear the surrounding area of dishes, sponges, and other items. Then, cover the sink area with paper towels. (Emphasis added)

I recognize that meat processing facilities make efforts to uphold safety and hygiene standards. However, my experience has taught me that businesses, especially those driven by profit, often cut corners when it comes to health and safety to maximize their earnings. Hence, I believe the government's stance on this matter is misguided.

As someone who appreciates scientific insights and values government intervention, I often support well-researched recommendations. However, when it comes to preparing meals for my loved ones, I choose to wash all meat. Why? Just look at the image below:

Upon closer inspection, I notice workers lacking masks or gloves. Humans, and particularly men, are not as hygienic as we should be. To those who may question my remark about men, I invite you to visit your local Armed Services Recruiting Office. After two decades in the military, you'll understand my perspective.

But there’s more! Tyson Foods, the largest meat processing company in the U.S. and the second largest globally, has been criticized for its lack of regulation and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Union of Concerned Scientists labeled Tyson as “the worst of the worst,” as depicted in the image below:

Keep in mind that Tyson Foods has been accused of exploiting farmers and colluding to manipulate prices long before the pandemic. If Tyson can disregard laws and lobby for weaker regulations, can we trust them—or any competitor—to provide clean meat?

Moreover, the employment of minors as young as 13 in meat processing facilities appears to be a troubling norm in the industry. Packers Sanitation Services Inc. of Kieler, Wisconsin, faced a $1.5 million fine for employing over 100 minors in hazardous jobs across various meat processing plants. Some of these minors worked overnight shifts, and at least three sustained injuries on the job.

Interestingly, a Republican congressman in Indiana has proposed legislation that would allow children to leave school after the 8th grade to work as farm laborers for up to 40 hours a week.

In essence, the meat processing sector appears excessively unclean, and I find it impossible to trust them to guarantee the cleanliness of their products. What can we do? While abstaining from meat is one option, it’s not feasible for many, myself included. We could aim to vote out lobbyists masquerading as representatives, which would be a positive step.

Until that aspiration becomes reality, I will continue to wash every piece of fresh meat I buy. Following the USDA's earlier suggestion, I will also ensure that my kitchen and sink are thoroughly cleaned afterward.

Chapter 2: Understanding Meat Washing Practices

This video titled "USDA - Why You Should Not Wash Meat or Poultry" explores the reasoning behind the USDA's stance on meat washing, highlighting the potential risks involved.

The second video, "Why People Wash Meat (or Don't)," delves into the cultural and personal reasons some individuals choose to wash their meat, offering a varied perspective on this contentious topic.