USDA proposal on cultivated meat labels is expected this year
The USDA’s meat safety agency aims to publish its proposed rule on cultivated meat labels this year, roughly three years after it asked consumers if names such as “steak” should be allowed, said a spokesperson on Wednesday.
Two goals for Califf: front-of-package labels and defining ‘healthy’
During a wide-ranging webinar, FDA commissioner Robert Califf listed two “very clear” goals for the agency this year — completion of regulations for front-of-package nutrition labels and writing a new definition of which foods can be labeled healthy. “It still amazes me that some people think [front of package labeling] is a bad idea,” he said.
TODAY’S QUICK HITS
Smaller U.S. cattle herd: A USDA survey indicated there were 87.2 million head of cattle in the United States at the start of this year, down 2 percent from 2023 and the lowest total since 1951; the calf crop also was down 2 percent. (USDA)
Lawsuit challenges environmental laws: Six business and ag groups filed suit in federal court against California laws requiring businesses to report greenhouse gas emissions across their supply chains, saying the laws violate the First Amendment and improperly reach into other states. (U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
El Niño reduces snowpack: The California snowpack, which typically supplies 30 percent of the state’s water needs, is 52 percent of average for the end of January because the El Niño weather pattern reduced precipitation this winter. (CDWR)
Ag-trade caucus in House: Four farm-state members of the House launched an Agricultural Trade Caucus to promote trade agreements and the removal of barriers to food and ag exports. (MNC)
Vilsack seeks WIC funding: Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was scheduled to visit a WIC clinic in Saint Paul, Minnesota, on Thursday to appeal for full funding of the nutrition program. (KFGO)
