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“Product of USA” final label met with applause at NFU Convention

The USDA has published a final rule to clarify the definition of the “Product of USA” label claim that’s used on meat, poultry and egg products.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA surveys have confirmed consumers are willing to pay more if the meat, poultry and eggs they purchase are a “Product of the USA.”

“In order for that value proposition to be respected and in order for there to be a fairness and honesty and proper representation in the marketplace, it’s important to have rules like this.”

The voluntary claim will be used on those products only when the animals are born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. Wisconsin Farmers Union member Darin Von Ruden says this good news.

“The more specific we can get on those labels, it’s going to be a benefit for not only the farmer, but the consumer because you’re connecting them a lot closer,” says Von Ruden.

USDA says there’s an updated labeling guidance on the use of the voluntary label and it will be open for comments after the rule has been published in the Federal Register.

Those wanting to use the label need to comply with regulatory requirements by January 1, 2026.