Virginia-based Smithfield Foods, the world's largest pork processor and hog producer, may soon be owned by China's largest meat producer, Shuanghui International Holdings.

Yesterday, Smithfield CEO Larry Pope testified before the Senate agriculture committee about lauding the deal, saying "this is an opportunity for U.S. pork producers to grow."

Detractors say China's poor reputation for food safety and its opaque business practices could pose long-term harm for the United States.