US Animal Protein Producers to face New USDA Labeling Standards

Original article from USDA Press Release

The USDA announced that it is implementing a multi-step effort aimed at strengthening the substantiation of animal-raising claims. 

Many animal-raising terms are marketing claims. The lack of definition surrounding some label claims on meat, poultry and egg products has caused consumer confusion in the US. Animal protein producers could soon be required to supply additional evidence to prove their product labeling claims such as “free range,” “antibiotic free” or “humanely raised.” Unlike “organic” claims, which are verified in person by government regulators, animal welfare claims currently only require paperwork self-submitted to the USDA.

“Consumers should be able to trust that the label claims they see on products bearing the USDA mark of inspection are truthful and accurate,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is taking action to ensure the integrity of animal-raising claims and level the playing field for producers who are truthfully using these claims, which we know consumers value and rely on to guide their meat and poultry purchasing decisions.”

FSIS, in partnership with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), will be conducting a sampling project to assess antibiotic residues in cattle destined for the “raised without antibiotics” market. The results of this project will help inform whether FSIS should require that laboratory testing results be submitted for the “raised without antibiotics” claim or start a new verification sampling program.
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FSIS will also be issuing a revised industry guideline to recommend that companies strengthen the documentation they submit to the agency to substantiate animal-raising claims. The agency plans to strongly encourage use of third-party certification to verify these claims.
Read more here and here.

Originally published on June 14, 2023 on USDA.gov

USDA

Labeling standards