TIFTON, Georgia– The Georgia Peanut Commission expressed disdain for the actions of the Peanut Corporation of America after viewing the findings released by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA reports PCA knowingly released a product with potential salmonella contamination into the food supply.

“We are dealing with a small manufacturer who was a bad actor in a good industry,” says Don Koehler, GPC executive director. “Because of this, farmers are having a difficult time obtaining peanut contracts for 2009, consumers are confused and the ripple effect is being felt throughout the peanut industry. This is unconscionable.”

The Georgia Peanut Commission will continue to monitor the salmonella recall and work closely with the American Peanut Council, FDA, the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Congress to work towards a solution.

The Georgia Peanut Commission is the state check-off organization representing peanut growers in the state. GPC is a member of the American Peanut Council, which is a voluntary private trade association that represents all segments of the American peanut industry. Additional information on the salmonella recall is available online at www.gapeanuts.com or www.peanutsusa.com.