Source: Feedstuffs
The Meat Institute has raised concerns about President Donald Trump’s executive order directing the government to explore mandatory country of origin labeling for beef. The organization argues that the United States previously tried mandatory COOL before Congress repealed the requirements for beef and pork in 2015.
According to the Meat Institute, the previous program created substantial implementation and ongoing costs without demonstrating increased beef demand or added value. Its analysis estimates that reinstating mandatory labeling could cost $721 million during the first year and add approximately $835 million annually to consumer beef purchases.
The organization argues that additional costs could place further pressure on beef prices when supplies are already tight and demand remains strong. Instead, it supports allowing USDA’s voluntary “Product of USA” labeling requirements to operate before considering another mandatory system. USDA permits the label on qualifying products derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the United States.