Meat & Poultry

Myth: My hamburger or steak is done when it’s brown in the middle or warm to the touch. The Facts: Internal temperature is the only way to tell when your hamburger, steak or other beef products are properly cooked. …

Johnsonville Sausage announced the results of America's vote for the Top 10 Educator and Community Celebration winners of the "Best of US" contest – a nationwide call to identify the individuals and events that reflect the American spirit. Based on more than 71,000 votes from individuals across the country, Robert "Bob" Tyrell, a teacher from East High School in Salt Lake City, Utah earned the $10,000 grand prize in the Educator category. The Community Celebration grand prize of $10,000 went to the organizers of Wayne Stock, a music festival held in North Creek, N.Y. that raises funds for victims of tragedy. …

Smithfield Foods Inc. said Monday that it has ended its relationship with celebrity chef and restaurateur Paula Deen, following her admission in a recent court deposition that she had used racial epithets in her past. …

Cargill’s Wichita-based beef business is sponsoring “Help a Hero Come Home,” via a ground beef initiative designed to raise money and awareness for Homes for Our Troops. More than 1,600 U.S. military veterans have incurred life-altering combat injuries during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom, requiring specially adapted homes. Homes for Our Troops, a 501(c)3, non-profit, charitable organization created in 2004, has built more than 130 homes in 35 states and now builds approximately 40 houses annually. …

In challenging times for producers, the Pork Checkoff’s domestic marketing efforts are paying off. In a news conference held during the World Pork Expo, National Pork Board officials reported positive response to its consumer campaigns. …