RMFU Calls on JBS Swift to Meet COOL Requirements

RMFU President Kent Peppler called on JBS Swift & Company to follow the lead of Tyson Fresh Meats by labeling beef and pork products to meet the intent of mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL).

On October 14, Tyson told its producers and retail markets that they will see that livestock born, raised, and processed in the U.S. is labeled with the Category A ,“U.S.” Tyson estimated that 90 percent of all the fresh, retail beef and pork cuts produced in the United States would qualify for the “U.S.” label.

“JBS Swift should take steps to comply as well,” Peppler said. In a letter to JBS, Peppler reminded them that Rocky Mountain Farmers Union has strongly supported providing American consumers with knowledge of their food’s origin. “Farmers and ranchers are proud of the food they produce in the United States,” the letter states. “We know JBS Swift is proud of the quality of meat products they provide to consumers in the United States and around the world. JBS Swift will benefit economically if they cooperate with livestock producers to implement COOL as intended by Congress.

Peppler offered to work with JBS to implement COOL. “JBS can provide the producers of livestock born, raised and processed in the United States with a label that lets consumers know where their food comes from and assures them that JBS Swift respects mandated standards for labeling of meat products.”