Please help close the USDA labeling loophole on foreign meat. Comments due 8/17!
Last call!
Here is a sample letter to share with followers. Comments can be submitted at this link, takes maybe five minutes! Due 8/17. Full petition attached.
https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=FSIS-2018-0024
August 17, 2018
REF: FSIS-2018-0024-0001
RE: Product of U.S.A.” entry in the FSIS Food Standards and Labeling Policy Book
ATTN: Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
I believe that only meat from animals born, raised and harvested in the USA should bear the label claim “Product of U.S.A.” Currently, the FSIS Policy Book allows meat from imported animals and carcasses fabricated/processed in the US to use the label claim “Product of U.S.A.”. The use of this claim on imported meat is untruthful and misleading. Even informed and engaged consumers often believe they are buying meat from animals raised on American farms and ranches instead of meat from animals raised in overseas feedlots.
Given the grave economic peril of American farmers and ranchers in the current economic environment of rural America, I believe the “Product of U.S.A.” policy should state that the claim be used ONLY IF it can be determined that significant ingredients having a bearing on consumer preference, such as meat, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, etc., are of U.S.A ORIGIN, and not just processed at some point within US borders.
Respectfully submitted.
XXX