The New COOL or Country of Origin Label

On September 30th, 2008 country of origin labels also know as COOL will become commonplace in the US. Meat, poultry, produce and some nuts will require a label that states the product's origin. I’ll tell you what I know about it right now although the interim final ruling may be revised and updated because of controversy.

• 2002: Farm Bill mandated country of origin labels or COOL
• 2004: Rule was published for fish and shellfish only
• 2008: Farm Bill Amended COOL provisions
• September 30, 2008: Implementation date

What does this new label law mean for you? It’s a start in the right direction in terms of personal knowledge. I’m not looking at this law from the cost of implementation for food companies or even the cost that might pass on to you but rather from a consumer information standpoint.  First, know that the law exempts food service establishments including those within retail establishments such as lunch rooms, salad bars, cafeterias, and delis. This is a point of contention for many people since food borne illness has started at salad bars before.

The COOL law also excludes processed food items. What does a processed food item mean in the COOL law? It includes a food item combined with another food item. So for example, strawberries would need a country of origin label but a fruit cup with grapes, apple and strawberries would not. Processed food items also include those food items where there is a change of character or in other words, items which are cooked, cured, smoked or restructured in some way. Examples would be sausage, marinated chicken, or teriyaki pork tenderloin. Many consider processed foods to be an exemption that should be included.

When you’re grocery shopping after September 30th you will find country of origin statements on labels as well as on signs, stickers, twist ties, bands, or other displays. There are a number of acceptable declarations or statements for this country of origin label. You will see variations such as “Product of the USA”, “Produce of the USA”, “U.S.”, “Grown in Mexico”, even states such as “California” because state and regional designations are OK for everything except meats, fish, and shellfish. For locally grown produce, this state designation is important.

The good news for you as consumers is that you will know more about what you are buying and eating. With food poisoning occurring in spinach, hot peppers and other foods, you’ll be able to avoid that product more easily. If you like to buy certain imported products or local produce, either way, it will be easier to do so. The COOL law empowers you with information for personal choice.

If you would like more information on COOL, check out this website: http://www.ams.usda.gov/cool

Dr. Susan