The Canadian Cattlemen's Association is reacting to the temporary closure of the huge XL Foods slaughterhouse and plant in Brooks.

The Association says ranchers see the temporary suspension of the plant's licence and the possibility of an indefinite closure for clean-up as a critical move to ensure the reputation of the beef industry in Alberta and across the country.

In a statement, the Cattlemen's Association says the closure is "absolutely not" evidence the recall is getting worse. To the contrary it argues: "the very strict measures demonstrate the vigor of the Canadian meat inspection system to take action to ensure that any issues are addressed and the public is safe." It expects the XL Foods plant closure in Brooks will have a temporary and minimal impact on producers and on prices.