On March 1, 2013, the Food Safety and Inspection Service’s (FSIS) rule on Nutrition Labeling of Single Ingredient Products and Ground or Chopped Meat and Poultry Products became effective. The rule requires nutrition labeling of the major cuts of single-ingredient, raw meat and poultry products on labels or at point-of-purchase. The rule also requires nutrition labels on all ground or chopped meat and poultry products, with or without added seasonings. Certain exemptions apply, including an exemption for small businesses. In addition, the rule provides that, when a ground or chopped product does not meet the regulatory criteria to be labeled “low fat” (as defined in 9 CFR 317.362(b)(2) and 381.462(b)(2)), a lean percentage statement may be included on the label or in labeling as long as a statement of the fat percentage also is displayed.
On July 8, 2015, FSIS released Directive 7130.1 which provides instructions to inspectors and investigators for enforcing the regulation. For more details on the inspection procedures please see this Lieberman PLLC Regulatory Alert. Please contact Erik Lieberman at erl1@liebermanpllc.com or 202.830.0300 if you have questions or would like additional information.
