Two new programs propose verification regulations on foreign suppliers for importers of food used for human and animal consumption.
The new rules proposed by the Bureau of Food and Drug Administration of the United States (FDA), is in the process of public review and comment for a period of 120 days.
The first set of rules "... would require U.S. importers to verify that their suppliers produce foods that meet U.S.
A new law establishes that labels must identify the country or countries where every step of production took place, such as birth, rearing and slaughter of the animal.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a final rule to amend the provisions of labeling for cuts of beef under the program Country of Origin Labeling (COOL).
An announcement has been made of new nutritional standards to be implemented in schools across the country, which include foods groups such as whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables and protein.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, Tom Vilsack, announced that under new nutrition standards to be applied in schools across the country, Smart Snacks in School, students will have a greater choice of healthy foods.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved the use of a label for meat and poultry which certifies it is free of genetically modified organisms.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved a label for meat and poultry products which states that they are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or transgenic substances.
On January 24 the Department of Agriculture of the United States will give a webinar on the PACA Law.
A statement from the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER) reads:
This activity will involve two federal officers from the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS for short) and a lawyer specializing in cases related to the implementation of these regulations.
A webinar is to be held on good agricultural practices and handling fresh produce delivered by the Ministry of Agriculture of the United States.
A statement from the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER) reads:
The Agricultural Marketing Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its program for fruits and vegetables, offers voluntary and independent audits for fresh produce suppliers along the supply chain.