Thurs., Oct 10 02 - Country of Origin Labeling Guidelines Launched

Suggested Lead:

The U.S. Department of Agriculture this week launched guidelines for a voluntary Country of Origin labeling program. According to Bryan Dierlam, director of Legislative Affairs for NCBA, the beef industry needs to work the kinks out of the program in preparation for it becoming a mandatory program in two years.

Cut #1       :37            Outcue: "...the law becomes mandatory."

Dierlam says the new guidelines indicate that cattle producers should be prepared to prove U.S. country of origin claims.

Cut #2       :33            Outcue: "...up to the individual business."

According to Dierlam, the program allows for a 180-day comment period that cattle producers should take advantage of.

Cut #3       :26            Outcue: "...a successful voluntary program."

Dierlam says the new guidelines can be viewed on the USDA Web site at www.usda.gov.