If you buy meat labeled “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA,” the product may not be what you think it is. Large corporate importers have been allowed to use these voluntary claims on meat, poultry, and eggs that are sourced internationally and then processed or repackaged in the US.
A new rule would change this. Proposed by the US Department of Agriculture, it would restrict the use of “Product of USA” labels to meat, poultry, and egg products made from animals that were born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the US.
The Cornucopia Institute believes in transparency at every stage of food production. The current labeling claims deny shoppers the ability to make an informed choice at the grocery store. Cornucopia has submitted its official comment to the USDA, and now we urge you to speak up to help end this deceptive labeling practice.
Use your voice today to protect consumer rights and support your local farmers. Whether you are a farmer, rancher, or consumer, your comments matter.
Need talking points? Here are some suggestions:
- Tell the USDA that you support the proposed changes and want “Product of USA” labels to only be used on meat, poultry, and egg product that originate in the US.
- Underscore the importance of transparency in the food system and accuracy in labeling.
- When possible, highlight your local organic producers and what you value about their products.
Accountability in our food system is worth fighting for, and this rule could set an important precedent for making labels more transparent and truthful.
Comments are due before midnight ET June 11, 2023.
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