Now the Emails are Rolling In!

From Fritz Richards, a great Aggie Friend. Fritz wouldn't lie to you -- I have pictures! Or maybe those are of his brother Erick. Better check to see if he has a freckle. Fritz = Freckle. I love mnemonics. They stick with you forever!!!

Dear Friends, Neighbors and Family,

No doubt you have all heard of the outbreak of the H1N1 virus that the media has been calling “Swine Flu”. Our family feels compelled to provide you with the best information about this situation that we have available.

First and most importantly, pork and pork products are safe. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) influenza H1N1 “is not transmitted by food. You cannot get this flu from eating pork products.” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, has said that the virus should not be called “swine flu” because there is no evidence that any swine in the U.S. or anywhere in the world have been found infected or sick with the virus.

Secondly, modern pork production practices are designed to protect both animal and human health. Animals are housed in facilities that are designed to ensure health and safety of the herd. These practices keep animals, clean, safe and protect the animals from predators, disease and extreme weather.

Finally, the CDC has also said that is has found no evidence to indicate that any of the human illnesses resulted from contact with pigs.

If you have any questions, feel free to email. If you would like additional information, check out the National Pork Board’s website at www.pork.org and the National Pork Producers Council website at www.nppc.org.

We take seriously our role to be responsible members of our community, and to provide pork products for consumers around the world.

Thank you,

Fritz Richards
National Sales Manager
Hog Slat