California lawmakers introduce bipartisan country-of-origin labeling bill

California lawmakers are tackling mandating clear country of origin labels.

Sponsors say that the mandate would protect local producers and make it easier for shoppers to distinguish local products from foreign ones.

California’s central valley is considered the fruit and nut basket of the world. That region alone accounts for 25% of the nation’s food.

Supporters of the bill say that California families deserve to know if the produce they purchase comes from down the road or from halfway around the world.

Related Stories
The first-ever “MICHELIN Guide to the American South” awards stars to top restaurants across Georgia, Louisiana, the Carolinas, and Tennessee, and pinpoints the region as a global food destination for the first time.
Expect modest relief on several produce lines, mixed protein trends into holiday buying, and softer veg-oil costs — a good week to sharpen forward buys selectively.
USDA will meet part of November SNAP benefits under court direction, citing insufficient funds for full payments.
America’s love for burgers depends on open markets. Without lean beef imports, prices would skyrocket, crushing demand and destabilizing the beef industry.
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.
Dr. Ashley Johnson, with the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), joins us to share the sector’s perspective on new FDA initiatives targeting ultra-processed foods.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
“Somewhere West of Wall Street” is simply the most recent addition to the long list of noteworthy accomplishments by the Renaissance cowboy, singer-songwriter, poet, author, and show host Red Steagall. Join Red and his quarter horse, Grey Dog, as they explore the people, places, and stories of the American West.
“Texas Our Texas” – a magical place. A place of land and legend. A place like no other. People come here to touch it, to feel the passion, to soak it in and be a part of it. Hosted by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. Let’s ride!
“Positively Paula,” is a nationally-syndicated lifestyle/food show that invites viewers to share a moment with their friend: Paula Deen, who we know and love.
Each week, “Rural Heritage” on RFD-TV treats its viewers to stories of farmers borrowing from yesterday to do the work of today. Using hand tools, natural farming methods and draft animal power, these men and women successfully compete with their neighbors who instead employ large, expensive modern machinery and rely on chemical fertilizers and insecticides to grow their crops.
Strong rural traditions, religion, cowboy boots, and technology collide in “Cowboy Church” — and taking part is as easy as turning on the TV!