1998 News Archive
CONSUMERS RESPOND TO COUNTRY-OF-ORIGIN LABELING FOR MEAT
WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 2, 1998) – In a recent consumer survey, researchers found the majority of American adults currently support country-of-origin labeling for meat, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) said today.
Results from the survey, which was conducted by Wirthlin Worldwide, indicate 78 percent of consumers polled currently endorse country of origin labeling, as it would allow them to choose between American meat or meat products from other countries. Support for country of origin labeling was higher among women, who tend to be the primary shoppers for their household. In fact, women between the ages of 35 and 54 showed an 86 percent support level for such labeling.
Country of origin labeling for meat, which was considered by the 105th Congress, remains an ongoing issue and a priority for America’s cattle producers. In October, Congress approved a six-month pilot study, due in mid-April, on the benefits and costs of country-of-origin labeling and the feasibility of rescinding the USDA quality grade for imported meat. Cattle producers also are expected to address the issue of rescinding the USDA quality grade during their annual convention Feb. 10-14, 1999.
According to Dale Moore, executive director of legislative affairs for NCBA, when consumers see the USDA stamp on beef products, they assume the products are from U.S. cattle. Yet, approximately 15 percent of beef sold in the U.S. is imported from other countries.
"U.S. cattle producers want to assure consumers they are getting products they want. We’ll be discussing country-of-origin labeling issues with retailers, packers, food processors and other industry groups in the coming months to find the best solution for meeting consumer expectations," said Moore.
Moore added that NCBA has begun sharing the survey results with congressional staff, the USDA and other industry groups. Based on study findings, NCBA will work within a producer coalition to urge congressional action on the issue when the 106th Congress convenes in 1999. Moore says NCBA also will be reaching out to consumers and beef industry partners to better understand their concerns as well.
-- NCBA --
Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the marketing organization and trade association for America’s one million cattle farmers and ranchers. With offices in Denver, Chicago and Washington D.C., NCBA is a consumer-focused, producer-directed organization representing the largest segment of the nation’s food and fiber industry.
Nationwide survey of 1,000 randomly selected U.S. adults was conducted Nov. 6-9, 1998. Margin of error = plus/minus 3%.