Contact: Anna Hastert, Director of Communications, Iowa Cattlemen's Association, 515-296-2266
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association recently submitted comment to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) requesting distinct labeling requirements for alternative, cell-cultured protein products.
In September, USDA FSIS published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to solicit comments from the public regarding labeling of ‘meat’ or ‘poultry’ products developed with cultured animal cells.
As producers and consumers, we recognize the importance of differentiating between products on the shelves of our grocery stores. The need for regulatory guidance pertaining to labeling is growing, as USDA and others invest in the creation of ‘cultivated meat.’ Consumers must be able to clearly identify what is lab-grown and what is beef in its most true form.
The beef we produce is often imitated, but never duplicated. USDA FSIS must establish labeling requirements for alternative products bioengineered with animal cells, without damaging the integrity of beef raised by cattle producers. Fair and accurate labeling will provide the transparency that consumers desire and deserve.
Read the full comment here.
About the Iowa Cattlemen's Association: The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association represents nearly 8,000 beef-producing families and associated companies dedicated to the future of Iowa’s beef industry. ICA’s mission is “Grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.” www.iacattlemen.org.