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A former worker at a South Dakota beef processor is suing ABC News, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and a food blogger, saying their use of the phrase "pink slime" to describe one of the company's products led to him being laid off.
Bruce Smith was among about 750 people who lost their jobs at Beef Products Inc. after the company took a financial hit over social media and news reports about lean, finely textured beef.
Smith is seeking $70,000 in damages in the civil suit.
BPI has sued ABC News for $1.2 billion for defamation. That lawsuit is pending.
Messages have been left with ABC News and Oliver seeking comment. Blogger Bettina Siegel says she believes she is protected by the First Amendment.
