Congress pushes two-year delay for meat, produce origin labeling

Congress pushes two-year delay for meat, produce origin labeling    Congressional leaders agreed in a conference report Nov. 25 to delay the implementation of mandatory origin labeling for meats and produce, excluding fish, until Sept. 30, 2006.
   “This decision is a victory for produce growers, shippers and marketers across the country who believe in providing country of origin information to consumers, but through a market-driven system rather than the burdensome and costly regulations that this law required,” said Tom Stenzel, president of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association in a statement.
   The 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act mandates the U.S. Department of Agriculture to impose origin labeling regulations for beef, lamb, pork, fish shellfish, perishable agricultural commodites and peanuts by Oct. 1, 2004.
   Produce and meat producers, even those that generally support the origin labeling law, warned lawmakers in recent testimony about the cost and disruption to their businesses to meet the mandate.
   “Congressional support of the two-year delay strikes just the right balance, freeing our members from the imminent cost and market disruption of the law while allowing the industry itself a chance to develop a more cost effective and efficient plan,” Stenzel said.
   Congress is expected to pass the origin labeling delay language, which is contained in an omnibus appropriations bill, when it returns. The House is expected to reconvene Dec. 8. The Senate schedule is not yet confirmed.