Key Takeaways
- The American Grassfed Association sounded the alarm about the "Product of USA" label loophole in 2018
- Farmers and ranchers pushed for reform, filing a formal petition with the USDA and organizing national attention
- The USDA initially refused to act, but eventually proposed a strong rule in 2023 after continued pressure from Farm Action and allies
- The finalized rule, set to take effect in 2026, will close the loophole and ensure that only products from animals born, raised, and slaughtered in the US can carry the "Product of USA" label
- The reform is a result of the efforts of farmers, ranchers, and organizations like Farm Action, who worked together to bring about change
Introduction to the "Product of USA" Label Loophole
The "Product of USA" label is a designation that is meant to indicate that a product is made in the United States. However, a loophole in the labeling rules allowed imported meat to carry this label, as long as it was processed in the US. This loophole was hurting American farmers and ranchers, who were being undercut by cheaper imported meat. The American Grassfed Association, led by Executive Director Carrie Balkcom and then-President Will Harris of White Oak Pastures, sounded the alarm about this issue in 2018. They heard from cattle producers who were being affected by the loophole and decided to take action.
The Fight for Reform
Carrie and Will brought the issue to Joe Maxwell and Angela Huffman, who later co-founded Farm Action. Together, the four of them took the issue to the USDA and asked for a basic fix. However, the USDA refused to act, prompting them to file a formal petition demanding that the loophole be closed. They went public, organized farmers, and forced national attention on the issue. Thousands of people and organizations backed reform, including ranchers who rode horses through Omaha to make their point clear. The efforts of these individuals and organizations helped to raise awareness about the issue and build support for change.
Initial Setbacks and Continued Pressure
In 2020, the USDA denied the petition and tried to settle for a weaker approach that still would have allowed imported animals to qualify for the "Product of USA" label. However, Farm Action and its allies kept pushing for a stronger rule. They took their priority to the incoming administration and continued to organize and rally supporters. The USDA’s initial denial was a setback, but it did not deter the group from continuing their fight for reform. Instead, they used it as an opportunity to regroup and refocus their efforts, eventually leading to a proposal for a stronger rule in 2023.
A Breakthrough in 2023
In 2023, the USDA proposed a strong rule that matched what ranchers had demanded from the start. The proposed rule would ensure that only products from animals born, raised, and slaughtered in the US could carry the "Product of USA" label. Farm Action rallied supporters and filed comments, keeping the pressure on the USDA to finalize the rule. The proposed rule was a major breakthrough in the fight for reform, and it marked a significant victory for American farmers and ranchers. The rule would help to level the playing field and ensure that consumers have accurate information about the products they buy.
The Finalized Rule and Its Impact
In 2024, the USDA finalized the rule and set it to take effect on January 1, 2026. The finalized rule is a result of the efforts of farmers, ranchers, and organizations like Farm Action, who worked together to bring about change. The rule will help to protect American farmers and ranchers from unfair competition and ensure that consumers have accurate information about the products they buy. The reform is a significant victory for those who have been fighting for truth in labeling, and it demonstrates the power of grassroots organizing and advocacy. The impact of the rule will be felt across the country, as American farmers and ranchers are able to compete on a level playing field and consumers are able to make informed choices about the products they buy.
Conclusion
The reform of the "Product of USA" label is a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and advocacy. The efforts of farmers, ranchers, and organizations like Farm Action helped to bring about change and ensure that consumers have accurate information about the products they buy. The finalized rule will have a significant impact on American farmers and ranchers, protecting them from unfair competition and helping to level the playing field. As the rule takes effect in 2026, it will be important to continue to monitor its implementation and ensure that it is effective in achieving its intended goals. The story of the "Product of USA" label reform is a reminder that change is possible when individuals and organizations work together to fight for what is right.
