USDA Tightens ‘Product of USA’ Label Rules

A new USDA labeling rule takes effect on January 1, tightening standards for when meat, poultry, and egg products can be labeled as ‘Product of the United States.’ Under the rule, claims like ‘Product of USA’ or ‘Made in USA’ are only allowed if animals were born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the United States. Meat from animals imported live for feeding or processing no longer qualifies. The rule does not require companies to use U.S.-origin labels, but those that do must maintain records to support the claim. Products that are minimally processed may still use qualified statements, such as noting they were sliced or packaged in the United States using imported meat. The regulation applies only to domestic sales, and critics say it could strain trade relations with Canada and Mexico and reduce imports of live animals.