The latest iteration calls for labels that say where beef, pork and poultry meat was born, raised and slaughtered. WTO says the rules amount to a trade barrier. If that decision holds, Vilsack says, COOL may need to be rescinded or Congress must “come up with a different direction” that allows “a more generic labeling that does not require segregation” of livestock.
Vilsack said 34,170 farms have begun the process of selecting a crop subsidy program under the 2014 farm law. Growers of grains and oilseeds can opt for a traditionally structured program or one that mimics revenue insurance. The deadline for enrollment is March 31.
To listen to Vilsack’s news conference, click here. The audio recording runs 43 minutes.