USDA issues rule to clarify ‘Product of USA’ label

Aiming to assist consumers in purchasing American-made groceries, the U.S. Department of Agriculture introduced a new federal rule on Monday targeting meats, eggs, and poultry. Only products derived from animals born and raised in the United States can bear the labels “Made in the USA” or “Product of USA.”

Under the current system, companies have been able to apply these labels to meats imported from other countries. While the use of these labels remains voluntary, the new regulation seeks to bolster consumer confidence in the “Made in the USA” designation, ensuring that such claims on meats, eggs, and poultry are genuinely reflective of American sourcing.

“Today’s announcement is a vital step toward consumer protection and builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s work to bolster trust and fairness in the marketplace where smaller processors can compete,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This final rule will ensure that when consumers see ‘Product of USA’ they can trust the authenticity of that label and know that every step involved, from birth to processing, was done here in America.”

The USDA is also distributing $9.5 million across 42 projects through the Local Meat Capacity (Local MCap) grant program, focusing on simple equipment projects to enhance local meat and poultry processing. Announced in April 2023, Local MCap, part of a $1 billion initiative to strengthen the meat supply chain, offers up to $75 million for projects that increase processing options and market potential for producers.