When will USDA start offering irradiated ground beef products to schools?
Product specifications will be released May 29, 2003, and schools will have the option to order irradiated beef beginning January 2004. This allows ample time for schools to educate parents and the community so that informed decisions can be made. Should schools decide to order product, this also allows schools ample time to notify parents. In addition, irradiated beef manufacturers will have the opportunity to study and implement the specifications prior to orders from schools in January. The decision to order and serve irradiated ground beef will be left to each school food authority.
