The American Meat Institute and other food industry associations requested the extension to allow for more research and collection of scientific and economic data. FSIS proposed mandatory labeling of these products after an October 1999 national survey showed that voluntary labeling had fallen below the 60% threshold.
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman said the proposed rule “is important to help consumers make informed dietary decisions. The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture looks forward to working with all interested parties to ensure that the final rule provides consumers accurate nutritional information.”
