S. 421: American Beef Labeling Act of 2025

The American Beef Labeling Act of 2025 is a proposed bill that aims to modify existing laws regarding the labeling of beef products sold in the United States. Here is an overview of the main provisions included in the bill:

Purpose

The primary goal of the bill is to establish mandatory country of origin labeling for beef products. This means that consumers will have clearer information about where the beef they are purchasing comes from.

Key Provisions

• Definitions: The bill clarifies what beef is, stating it refers to meat produced from cattle, including veal.
• Labeling Requirements: It amends current laws by adding specific requirements for beef and ground beef to be included under the existing country of origin labeling regulations that currently apply to other meats like lamb.
• Reinstatement of COOL: The bill mandates that within 180 days of its enactment, the U.S. Trade Representative, in collaboration with the Secretary of Agriculture, must define a way to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling for beef that adheres to the World Trade Organization's rules.
• Implementation Timeline: It specifies that this reinstatement must be completed within one year of the bill's enactment.
• Effective Date: The new labeling regulations will become effective either when the Secretary of Agriculture announces that the means have been implemented or one year after the bill becomes law, whichever comes first.

Impact on Consumers

This legislation is intended to provide consumers with more transparent information about the origin of beef products, potentially allowing them to make more informed purchasing decisions based on their preferences for domestic or imported beef.

Impact on Producers and Suppliers

By requiring country of origin labeling for beef, the bill could affect beef producers, suppliers, and retailers, as they would need to comply with new labeling requirements. This includes verifying the origin of the beef they sell and ensuring that packaging is updated to reflect these changes.

Relevant Companies

• TSN - Tyson Foods, Inc. may be significantly impacted as a leading beef producer and supplier. They may need to adjust their labeling practices and supply chain management to comply with the new requirements.
• BRFS - BRF S.A., a global food company with a significant presence in the beef market, may face changes in production and distribution strategies due to the new labeling regulations.
• WHGRY - WH Group Limited, the parent company of Smithfield Foods, known for its pork products but also involved in beef, could see an impact on its labeling and marketing strategies.