In response, Wendy's sends news release to media, again claiming that its standards meet McDonald's and Burger King's

Thursday July 5, 12:45 pm Eastern Time

Press Release
SOURCE: Wendy's International, Inc.

Wendy's History Demonstrates Commitment to Animal Welfare

DUBLIN, Ohio, July 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Wendy's International (NYSE: WEN - news) confirmed today that its comprehensive animal welfare program both meets guidelines recently announced by its two major competitors and surpasses government standards.

"Wendy's began its animal welfare initiatives in the early 1990s. We did so because we believe in the principles of humane animal treatment," said Kathie Chesnut, executive vice president, research and development, Wendy's International.

"We are continually working with our suppliers and university researchers to identify ways to advance our program. It's a part of our business that we take very seriously," Chesnut said.

In 1998, the company significantly strengthened its existing program by adopting American Meat Institute animal welfare guidelines. These guidelines were developed by Dr. Temple Grandin of Colorado State University, one of the foremost authorities in the field of animal welfare.

Wendy's works with several outside experts, including Dr. Grandin, to continually monitor, verify and evaluate proper animal handling among its suppliers. These experts also help train Wendy's personnel.

A key component of Wendy's program includes regular announced and unannounced animal welfare audits of all beef, chicken and pork suppliers by independent and trained company auditors. Importantly, companies that fail to meet Wendy's guidelines are eliminated as approved suppliers.

According to Dr. Grandin, "Wendy's has one of the most comprehensive animal welfare auditing programs in the industry. The company's commitment to the humane treatment of animals is evidenced by semi-annual audits of each meat packing facility they utilize."

These audits cover a thorough review of animal housing, transportation, holding facilities and other areas.

Another major component of Wendy's animal welfare effort is a certified supplier feed program that ensures cattle are fed in compliance with FDA regulations. This protects the animals' health and guards against cattle- related diseases.

Wendy's also has an established animal welfare advisory council that meets regularly to review company and supplier audits and other initiatives.

SOURCE: Wendy's International, Inc.