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Actually, this topic came up last night as we were eating our prime rib.
The same thought about terrorism infecting a herd and the impact it would have was discussed. I agree, it really wouldn't be that difficult.
Though chicken is the top seller, beef has seen their prices climb and the industry has been enjoying a rebound. The issue with ground beef is the parts that are used when making ground meat.
I read that the current opinion is the tissue surrounding and including the central nervous system are the parts that get "infected". (So far)
One problem is that these ground up pieces are used in animal feed for the protein. It can spread as other animals eat feed that has infected animal parts in it. There was a case (last summer I think) where the disease was found in a deer. Not much mentioned about that, but hunters who enjoy venison might take note.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if it isn't already in people. It takes so long to show up and the only way to confirm it is through an autopsy. Will we start seeing obits with "In lue of flowers, please make donations to mad cow research"? Scary!
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