|
Written by Richard E. Starkey
|
|
Sunday, 22 February 2009 |
|
For those concerned about the source of the food they eat a new help is at hand. This past week USDA published the “Final Rule” for the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL). This rule takes effect 16 March 2009. What that means for the consumer is effective on that date a range of foods MUST be labeled as to the Country of Origin. Not all food items will be affected. For example items that have been altered by cooking or chemical change – such as cooking, curing smoking or have been combined with other components such as chocolate or tomato sauce. Also exempt are food services such as restaurants, lunch rooms, food stands, bars and similar establishments.
Covered by COOL are such items as muscle cuts, ground beef, lamb, chicken, pork, wild and farm raised fish, shellfish such commodities as fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. Wild and farm raised fish must indicate the method of production. Such items as peanuts, pecans, ginseng and macadamia nuts are also covered unless they are an ingredient in a processed food item. Long in the making, COOL is another step in making it easier for the consumer to buy wisely. Until such time as other countries adhere to minimum food safety standards we need this tool. When crops are irrigated with water tested and treated and chemicals are banned, as some are in this country, we need to know how much we are at risk.To put “some” teeth into the new rule both retailer and supplier face penalties up to $1,000 per violation. So when we can’t BUY LOCAL, we at least know what problems lurk at the supermarket. And oh yes, one of our local supermarkets has begun labeling county of origin in its ads and in the store. |
