USDA announces food labeling regulation

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday the language of a new regulation that will require country of origin labeling for many foods.

The USDA said in a statement the final rule will be published in the Jan. 15 Federal Register. The regulation is required by the 2002 and 2008 farm bills.

The rule covers muscle cuts and ground beef, lamb, chicken, goat and pork; wild and farm-raised fish and shellfish; as well as perishable agricultural commodities, specifically fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, macadamia nuts, pecans, ginseng and peanuts.

Commodities covered under the rule must be labeled on shelves to indicate country of origin, while fish and shellfish must have their method of production -- wild or farm-raised -- disclosed at retail.

Food service establishments, such as restaurants, lunchrooms, cafeterias, food stands and bars are exempt from the regulations.

The law provides for penalties of up to $1,000 per violation for both retailers and suppliers not complying with the regulations.