The Agriculture Department stopped all new research projects at its Meat Animal Research Center until new protocols are implemented in response to reports of the harsh treatment of animals at the facility in Nebraska, according to Feedstuffs. The USDA reviewed operations at the facility after a New York Times story described questionable practices. A review panel appointed by the department said in a report that it observed healthy and well-cared-for animals and “no instance of animal abuse, misuse or mistreatment were observed.” Areas for improvement, said the panel, “centered primarily on processes and documentation associated with” an animal-care committee. Feedstuff says the panel’s report faulted the committee for not adequately fulfilling its responsibilities to oversee protocols and other activities related to animal care and use in research.
The report is available here.