08/15/2025
Farm Fact Friday!
🇺🇸 Is “USA Beef” Really American?
Not always!
Many shoppers assume that beef labeled “Product of USA” was raised and processed entirely in America. But that’s not necessarily true.
Under current regulations, imported beef can be labeled “Product of USA” even if the cattle were born, raised, and slaughtered in another country, as long as the meat is processed or repackaged once it arrives in the United States.
This means beef from countries like Mexico, Brazil, or Australia can be sold with a “USA” label simply because it was sliced, ground, or boxed in an American facility.
🏷️ What Happened to COOL?
The U.S. once required Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) on beef, which gave consumers transparency about where their meat came from. Labels would clearly state if the beef was from another country. However, in 2015, Congress repealed mandatory COOL for beef and pork after the World Trade Organization ruled that the labeling discriminated against foreign producers. Since then, COOL has only been required for certain products like lamb, chicken, and produce—not beef.
🐄 Why It Matters
American farmers raise cattle under strict safety, environmental, and animal welfare standards. Without clear labeling, consumers can’t easily distinguish between American-raised beef and imported meat that may not meet the same standards.
That’s why it’s critical for farmers, and all Americans to advocate at the local, state, and federal levels for transparent labeling and fair standards.
Knowing where your food comes from shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Lily Burns, Jr Miss Arkansas State Fair, 2024
