H.R. 5818: Country of Origin Labeling Enforcement Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Country of Origin Labeling Enforcement Act of 2025, aims to amend existing laws regarding country of origin labeling for beef products. Here are the main aspects of the bill:

Definitions

It introduces a clearer definition of beef, specifying that it includes meat produced from cattle, which also covers veal. This clarification is meant to ensure that labeling is consistent and unambiguous.

Country of Origin Requirements

The bill proposes to enhance the requirements for labeling beef products. Specifically, it mandates that retailers cannot label beef products as originating from the United States if they are actually from foreign sources. This means that only beef produced in the United States can be labeled as such, reinforcing the accuracy of country of origin claims for consumers.

Notice of Country of Origin

It also modifies existing regulatory language to make sure that references to beef are included throughout the relevant sections of the Agricultural Marketing Act. This ensures that all guidelines regarding origin labeling apply to beef in the same way they do to other types of meat like lamb and venison.

Enforcement of the Law

The bill proposes stricter penalties for violations of the country of origin labeling requirements. Previously, violations were punishable with a fine of $1,000. Under the new amendment, if a retailer mislabels beef, they could face a fine of $5,000 for each pound of non-compliant beef, significantly increasing the financial repercussions for violations.

International Relations Consideration

Lastly, the bill affirms that any prior or future rulings by international organizations, such as the World Trade Organization, shall not undermine or affect the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture regarding the enforcement of these country of origin labeling requirements.

Relevant Companies

• TSN (Tyson Foods, Inc.) - As a major player in the beef industry, specific compliance requirements relating to labeling may affect how they market their products.
• BRFS (BRF S.A.) - This international meat producer may need to adjust their marketing strategies to comply with stricter U.S. labeling laws.
• CHK (Chesapeake Energy Corporation) - If engaged in cattle farming or beef production, they could experience impacts on labeling and compliance costs.