MAD COW APPEARS in the United States. I think it’s the swine flu of the 21st century, but I’m glad I don’t own McDonald’s stock.

UPDATE: Call me crazy, but I don’t think that McCaviar is going to get them over this hurdle. On the other hand, reader James Dailey emails:

MCD actually maintains its own beef supply and has intensive controls regarding quality. I’d be more worried about companies like Lone Star and Outback, that do not have their own supply. MCD’s menu has been moving away from beef as the only source of revenue, with salads and poultry becoming important menu items. Your reaction is common and is why the stock is trading down – but is also why I’m buying for my clients!

There’s always a silver lining, I guess.