Towards a consistent standard

On Friday, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) previewed the Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards (OLPS) proposed rule in the Federal Register, which proposes requirements for organic poultry and livestock living conditions, care, transport, and slaughter.

• The goal is to promote a fairer and more competitive market for organic livestock producers by making sure that certified USDA livestock products are produced to the same consistent standard.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack encourages producers, processors, and consumers to submit comments about the rule so that the food system can be improved. This is an opportunity to align consumers’ and producers’ expectations and build trust across the supply chain.

• The written comment period will close at midnight, 60 days from publication. NOP will also host a public webinar listening session on August 19th, 2022, to hear oral comments on the proposed rule.

When finalized, the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) will oversee the rule’s implementation.