USDA Faces Widespread Criticism After Horrifying Undercover Video Of Hormel Pork Processing Plant Surfaces Online

According to the guidelines issued to meat-product manufacturers by USDA, pigs are supposed to be rendered unconscious before being killed, but in the video, several pigs are seen writhing in pain while their throats are slit, while some are even conscious of their approaching deaths while being sent down the line. Some are covered in pus-filled abscesses, while some others can be seen drenched in their own feces.

Quality Pork Products processes anywhere between 19,000 and 22,000 hogs each day, making it one of the most productive facilities in the country. But the video suggests that the sheer volume of processing means shocking mistreatment of pigs is highly probable.

"That one was definitely alive," a worker can be heard in the edited version of the disturbing video.

"If the USDA is around, they could shut us down," jokes another.

The USDA, who have now gained access to the full-length video, say that an investigation is underway. If found guilty, Hormel will have to face serious consequences, the organization warned.

"The actions depicted in the video under review are appalling and completely unacceptable, and if we can verify the video's authenticity, we will aggressively investigate the case and take appropriate action," said USDA spokesman Adam Tarr.

Though its representatives refused to comment on the inhumane conditions of the plant, Nate Jansen, vice president of human resources and quality services at QPP, said the company ensures there is no contamination in the processed meat and pointed out that the employee who captured the video might be in trouble.

"We were disappointed to see that it appears an employee may not have followed company policy."

Ted Genoways, a writer and scholar who has had access to the video, said there is no way the video could have been fabricated.

"I don't think you can look at the video along with the USDA guidelines and say that QPP is following the law. This [Hormel] plant is the symbol of everything that is wrong with the meat industry."

"This is f****g outrageous. I can't believe the insane abuse and cruelty that human beings inflict on these sensitive, intelligent creatures. The fact that anyone would even try to justify this atrocity shows a corrupt mind indeed. Our species needs to wake the f**k up and stop the horror that is taking place in these slaughterhouses."

[Photo via Tryveg Screengrab / YouTube]