US Proposes To Revise Poultry Definitions - WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is proposing to amend the official poultry class standards of identity to more accurately describe poultry sold in the marketplace today.

FSIS uses poultry class standards to ensure that poultry products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner.

After examining current poultry production methods and poultry class standards of identity, FSIS has determined the existing standards are outdated and too broad to accurately represent poultry being produced today. Advancements in breeding and husbandry have generally shortened the period of time required for birds to attain market-ready weights. For example, thirty years ago, it took 12 to 13 weeks to produce birds with the physical characteristics of broilers, which are now being produced in as little as six to eight weeks. The proposed classifications would more clearly describe the age and breeding of poultry classes and enhance FSIS' ability to enforce labeling claims.

"FSIS continually strives to keep regulations aligned with advances in the market place," said Dr. Garry L. McKee, FSIS administrator. "Ultimately, revising outdated poultry class standards of identity will result in more accurate labeling for consumers."

SUMMARY:

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to amend the definitions and standards for the official U.S. classes of poultry so that they more accurately and clearly describe the characteristics of poultry in the market today.

Poultry classes are defined primarily in terms of the age and sex of the bird. Genetic improvements and new poultry management techniques have reduced the grow-out period for some poultry classes, while extensive cross breeding has produced poultry with higher meat yields but blurred breed distinctions. This action is being taken to ensure that poultry products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 28, 2003.

ADDRESSES: Submit one original and two copies of written comments to:
FSIS Docket Clerk, DOCKET 99-017P,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Room 102, Cotton Annex,
SW., Washington, DC 20250-3700.

All comments submitted on this proposal will be available for public inspection in the Docket Clerk's Office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Robert C. Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Office of Policy and Program Development, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; (202) 205-0279.

To view the proposed rule
Click here for the PDF format (4 pages)
or
Click here for the text format

Source: - Food Safety and Inspection Service - 30th September 2003