USDA FSIS Constituent Update: Executive Order Regarding Meat and Poultry Processors

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Executive Order Regarding Meat and Poultry Processors

On April 28, 2020, President Trump issued an executive order declaring that meat and poultry processors meet newly established criteria under the Defense Production Act.

CDC and DOL Issue New COVID-19 Guidance to Meat and Poultry Industry

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Labor (DOL) have issued guidance specific to the meat and poultry processing industry in order to facilitate ongoing operations and support the food supply, while also mitigating the risk of spreading COVID-19.

IAFP Elects FSIS’ Chief Scientist to Executive Board

Members of the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) elected Dr. Emilio Esteban, FSIS’ Chief Scientist, to the Executive Board as Secretary.

FSIS Extending Deadline for Temporary Allowances for Labels Going to Retail

FSIS recognizes the ongoing challenges industry and retailers are facing with the labeling and redirection of products for distribution for retail sale.

Labeling at a Federal Establishment

Product produced at a federal establishment typically intended for distribution to hotels, restaurants, or similar institutions (HRI) will have modified labels applied by the federal establishment so that the products can now be sold at retail.

Labeling at Retail for Bulk Product Already in Commerce

Bulk product, even if labeled for HRI (e.g. child nutrition labeled product or product labeled for a specific restaurant or institution), may be distributed to retail where the retailer will repackage the product into smaller consumer size packages and apply a label.

Labeling at Retail for Product in Unlabeled Protective Coverings Already in Commerce 

A fully labeled container with meat or poultry products in unlabeled protective coverings may be distributed to a retailer for labeling, which is not currently allowed under 9 CFR 317.1 and 381.115.