S. 4464: Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels Act of 2026, proposes updates to federal regulations concerning the labeling and oversight of cell-cultivated protein products, which are food products created from the cells of animals cultured in a lab rather than sourced directly from live animals. It aims to ensure that consumers are clearly informed about the nature of these products in the marketplace.

Key Provisions of the Bill

Definition Updates

The bill introduces a formal definition for "cell-cultivated protein products" under both the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act. These products are defined as food items made wholly or in part from animal cells that are cultivated outside of the animal itself.

Labeling Requirements

The labeling of cell-cultivated protein products must comply with specific requirements to avoid misbranding:

• The label must prominently display the words "cell-cultivated" near the product name.
• It must indicate that the product is derived from sources other than traditional meat or poultry.
• A disclaimer should clarify that the final product does not contain meat or poultry from a live animal.

Regulatory Oversight

The Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Health and Human Services are tasked with joint regulation of cell-cultivated protein products. The bill requires a revision of previous agreements to ensure both agencies cooperate effectively in overseeing the safety and labeling of these products.

Applicability

The same regulatory requirements that apply to traditional meat and poultry products will also apply to cell-cultivated protein products. This means that the safety, production, and labeling regulations for these new food categories will mirror those set for conventional animal products.

Plant-Based Alternatives

Additionally, the bill addresses plant-based alternative protein products. It establishes definitions and labeling requirements similar to those for cell-cultivated products. These include stating that a product is a "plant-based alternative protein product" and ensuring that labels clarify the product does not contain meat or poultry.

Common Standards of Identity

The bill mandates the creation of uniform standards for labeling both cell-cultivated and plant-based protein products to create consistency across the marketplace. The aim is to create a clear understanding of what consumers are purchasing.

Relevant Companies

• TSN (Tyson Foods, Inc.): As a major player in the meat production industry, Tyson may be affected by the rise of cell-cultivated products, particularly in how they compete with traditional meat.
• CMG (Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.): Chipotle’s sourcing decisions may face changes as consumer preferences shift towards cell-cultivated proteins, influencing its supply chain and menu offerings.
• BYND (Beyond Meat, Inc.): As a company that specializes in plant-based alternatives, Beyond Meat is likely to be driven to adapt its labeling and product definitions in line with this bill.