USDA AMS: National Organic Program (July 13, 2016)

On April 13, 2016 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published in the Federal Register a proposed rule to amend the requirements for production of organic poultry and livestock. As AMS is well aware, the organic market is increasing in growth and relies on a high level of consumer confidence due to the standards in place from USDA and the rigorous certification process currently in place. The proposed rule would amend the organic livestock and poultry production requirements by: adding new provisions for livestock handling and transport for slaughter and avian living conditions; and expand existing requirements covering livestock health care practices and mammalian living conditions. FMI appreciates the opportunity to submit comments on the proposed rule on the “National Organic Program; Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices”, but is concerned with a number of proposals, as stated below.