(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman today, along with members of Nebraska's Congressional delegation and the Nebraska Cattlemen, advocated for Nebraska and U.S. beef to one of Japan's largest news organizations, which sent reporters to the Cornhusker State to find an American face for their nation's ban on imports of U.S. beef.

"I am pleased that these reporters and their editors went to the effort to visit our state and report on the argument for reopening Japan's border to U.S. beef," Gov. Heineman said. "Delaying the acceptance of sound science, which shows that Nebraska and U.S. beef is safe, is costing our farmers and our producers, and it is also costing Japanese consumers."

Reporters from The Asahi Shimbun, Japan's second largest newspaper (10 million circulation) and an international partner of The New York Times, visited Fremont Beef, a Japanese-owned meat processing plant, one of several to have been affected by the ban on imports of U.S. beef, as well as Greater Omaha Packing Co., the largest packing plant in the United States certified to export beef to the European Union.

The Japanese newspaper's reporters contacted U.S. Rep. Lee Terry, who toured the facilities along with the Governor and Rep. Jeff Fortenberry. Both joined the Governor in advocating Nebraska and U.S. beef as safe. Members of the Nebraska Cattlemen, producers who raise cattle themselves, spoke to the reporters as well. Other members of the delegation offered strong messages of support for U.S. beef.

"Food safety is always a priority," Rep. Terry said. "Our plants, feeders and ranchers take strong measures to ensure our safety. Nebraska's cattle men and women are extraordinary people who take their work very seriously. I am happy to have our guests from Japan be able to witness and experience the quality of service and safety we offer."

Gov. Heineman said, "I believe it is imperative that we make every effort to help our trading partners understand the importance of opening their markets to Nebraska products and those from elsewhere in the U.S. Our state needs to reach beef consumers in Japan and let them know that we are working hard to bring our quality meats back to their markets."

CONTACT
Aaron Sanderford, 402-471-1967