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http://abcnews.go.com)
Tyson Foods Inc. says it will suspend purchases of cattle that have been fed supplements to increase growth before slaughter. This decision was based on the fact that many of the animals that arrive at their processing plants have difficulty walking or moving.
According to experts, the cause of the cattle's debilitation likely stems from the use of Merck Animal Health feed supplement Zilmax, or zipaterol.
Merck denies the claims, saying that Zilmax hasn't caused any problems.
Suspension of Zilmax-fed cattle purchases will effectively begin September 6.
Some analysts expect beef prices to experience a slight increase in the next few months.
Tyson says that the issue is about the well-being of the animals, not food safety.
