The idea to buy the chicken, which will go to food banks, school lunch programs and other food assistance programs, was hatched during discussions between the USDA and the National Chicken Council about Russia’s ban, Reuters reports. The NCC thanked the USDA in a statement.
“USDA’s purchase is a timely action that will relieve the industry of excess product while providing high-quality food to needy people here at home – a true win-win,” said NCC President George Watts. “We are delighted to be able to provide this product to the government for distribution to food banks and other outlets.”