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COOL (Country of Origin Labeling) 09/30/08 9:05:37 AM
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As part of the 2002 Farm Bill and amended 2008 Farm Bill, the US government required that beginning September 30, 2008 retail fresh and enhanced meat products sold in grocery stores must identify the "Country of Origin" where the source of animals were born, raised and harvested. Our retail customers will be required to comply with this rule and will request that we, their supplier, provide them with the necessary documentation regarding the origin of these products.
As a valued partner in our business, documentation to verify the country where your animals were born and raised will need to be provided to both company and regulatory agency if your farm is audited. Your documents will need to show all pigs movements from sow farm to nursery to finisher and finally to the packer. You need to document this information for ALL animals whether U.S. or imported animals. This law also includes a civil penalty of up to $1,000 fine for any willful violation of mislabeled product falling under the law. Any fines imposed will be levied down the pork chain to the responsible party.
As a producer you will be required to complete an affidavit that states origin of the animals and identifies the animals unique to each transaction to John Morrell & Co. John Morrell & Co. may require additional records or access to substantiate your origin claims. Persons willfully making false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements or entries regarding the declaration of Country of Origin shall be liable for any damages due to the inaccuracy of the affidavit.
We appreciate your cooperation and will keep you informed if this situation changes.
For a copy of the affidavit, click here.
After filling out the affidavit, fax it to 605-330-3159.
Any questions, call the procurement office @ 1-800-365-4647.
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