U.S. Cattlemen Back Renewed Push for Mandatory Country-of-Origin Labels (MCOOL) on Beef

Enforceable origin labels could create clearer premiums for U.S. cattle and address concerns some producers have had with competition from foreign imported beef.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association says the latest Congressional move to restore mandatory country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef could strengthen trust at the meat case and value on the ranch. Clear origin labels — when paired with enforcement — give independent producers a way to differentiate U.S.-raised cattle and give consumers straightforward information, a priority as price sensitivity and provenance concerns remain high.

Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) has reintroduced the Country-of-Origin Labeling Enforcement Act (H.R. 5818), and Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) has signed on in support. USCA leaders note the bill aligns with nearly two decades of the group’s advocacy for transparent, accurate labels. The organization frames MCOOL as a producer-and-consumer win — restoring visibility to U.S. beef while reinforcing confidence in retail labeling.

If Congress advances an enforceable framework, packers and retailers would need consistent segregation and verification, while producers could gain clearer market signals for cattle born, raised, and harvested domestically. USCA says it will continue working with lawmakers and industry groups to advance the effort on behalf of independent cattle producers and rural communities.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Enforceable origin labels could create clearer premiums for U.S. cattle and address concerns some producers have had with competition from foreign imported beef.

Related Stories
For many farm businesses, property taxes on business assets have become a significant and highly visible expense, threatening liquidity, discouraging investment, and creating a disproportionate burden when compared to other industries.
Ethanol markets remain mixed — weaker production and blend rates are being partially balanced by stronger exports as winter demand patterns take shape.
Tariff relief may soften grocery prices, but it also intensifies competition for U.S. fruit, vegetable, and beef producers as cheaper imports regain market share.
Strong U.S. yields and steady demand leave most major crops well supplied, keeping price pressure in place unless usage strengthens or weather shifts outlooks.
While agriculture doesn’t predict every recession, the sector’s long history of turning down before the broader economy
The ACRE Act modestly reduces farmland borrowing costs now, with more savings possible once federal guidance clarifies which loans qualify.
ARC-CO delivers the bulk of 2024 support, offering key margin relief as producers manage tight operating conditions.
Higher menu prices and tax-free tips are reshaping restaurant economics, sharply lifting server take-home pay even as diners face higher out-the-door costs.
USDA’s steady yields and heavy global stocks keep grains range-bound unless demand firms or South American weather becomes a real threat.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Rural businesses report softer sales, tougher hiring, and restrained investment — a backdrop that can pinch farm support capacity even if posted prices cool.
Friday’s release will be the first WASDE report in about two months, and early estimates indicate a corn surplus is still on the way.
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
Export strength is concentrated in corn and wheat, while soybeans and sorghum lag, keeping basis and logistics dynamics highly commodity-specific into late fall.
Pasture, Rangeland and Forage (PRF) interval selection—not just participation—drives protection levels as rainfall patterns become less predictable across the South.
If the House concurs and the President signs, USDA services and farm-bill programs resume at full speed with authorities extended for another year.