LAURA'S LEAN BEEF REFUTES CSPI CHARGES

LEXINGTON, Ky. -- Laura's Lean Beef Co. issued a statement responding to a report by the Center for Science in the Public Interest questioning the nutritional content of the company's beef products. Laura Freeman, president of Laura's Lean, said it appears that the Washington-based consumer advocacy group failed to employ "standard sampling methodology," and used a lab not accredited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Additionally, "based on photographs provided by CSPI, we believe that some of the product tested was not Laura's Lean Beef," Freeman stated. In its report, CSPI found that at least 28 of 30 Laura's Lean-brand steaks analyzed had more fat, saturated fat and calories than listed on the label or on the company's Web site. CSPI urged the USDA to investigate the labeling claims, and asked the American Heart Association to reconsider allowing the beef company to use the AHA's "heart-check" logo on packages.