US

Enhanced feed ban

The US was scheduled to implement its enhanced feed ban in April 2009.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is seeking comments on whether to delay or re-open the comment period.
The CCA shared Canada’s experience with U.S. industry and government officials to assist in the efficient implementation of U.S. ban, plus encourage a return to a harmonized regulatory environment between trading partners.

Different from Canada’s feed ban:

• U.S. bans brain and spinal cord from over-thirty-month (OTM) cattle in all animal feed; but retains fertilizer as an outlet.
• Although less restrictive than Canada’s ban, it is expected that the U.S. will adopt a ‘zero’ tolerance for infractions – a cost concern for U.S. renderers similar to Canadian costs.

Rule 2

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remanded to promptly provide notice and comment on the over-30-month (OTM) provisions, according to Eighth Circuit Court which issued a preliminary injunction against Rule Two in July 2008.

OTM trade into the U.S. was not affected.

Click here for an overview on Mandatory Country-of-Origin Labelling (mCOOL).