Smithfield terminates Paula Deen deal
SMITHFIELD, Va. (WAVY) - The controversy surrounding Paula Deen continues with Smithfield Foods terminating its partnership with the Savannah-based star.
Smithfield Foods released the following statement to WAVY.com:
Smithfield condemns the use of offensive and discriminatory language and behavior of any kind. Therefore, we are terminating our partnership with Paula Deen. Smithfield is determined to be an ethical food industry leader and it is important that our values and those of our spokespeople are properly aligned.
Deen has come under fire recently after admitting to using a racial slur in the past while being questioned in a discrimination lawsuit. She insists she and her family do not tolerate prejudice.
The Food Network announced Friday the company would not renew Deen’s contract when it ends this month shortly after she released an apology, sparking both support and backlash.
Smithfield Foods is also under fire for a deal involving a Chinese company. That deal has not yet been approved.
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