The USDA has finally issued new rules for Organic beef. The rules will go into effect this coming June. The new rules are to clear up some questions regarding how much of an organic livestock’s life should be spent grazing.
Some of the regulations themselves have been a bit gray and lacking in clarity. Issues have been specifically raised about whether enormous farms have been confining livestock excessively, without regard for the animals. Now the USDA has introduced tighter regulations to bring clarity to the amount of time organic livestock should actually be grazing. This issue has not been well defined and was placed on the back burner by the Bush Administration. The Obama Administration has raised the issue with the USDA and now that department has responded with these new rules. Part of the Obama Administration’s interest comes on the heels of its decision to suspend Promiseland Livestock, the nation’s largest organic livestock producers with over 22,000 head of cattle, for not allowing the USDA to inspect financial and organic records. The new USDA Organic Regulations state that at least 30 percent of food cows’ ingest must come from grazing. If the dairy farm is located in a mild climate like California, cows will be expected to graze even more than the 120 days mandated as a minimum by law. Organic beef standards will also be tightened. Cattle, sheep, buffalo, and goats that are raised under USDA organic standards must follow the new rules as well. USDA Organic regulations provide some dietary leeway towards the end of a livestock’s life within the last four months prior to being slaughtered. This is a good step for USDA regarding organic livestock. Now USDA needs to update their regulations regarding personal care. A better definition as to what constitutes an organic personal care product is needed so consumers can make an informed buying decision.
Photo: Jersey Cows Photo: By John Vlahakis
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