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
Reducing mental stress and focusing on controllable actions can improve decision-making in high-pressure environments, according to Hollywood actor and former Calif Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Tight fed supplies shift margin risk to packers, strengthening cattle price leverage but increasing volatility.
Expanding chicken supplies are likely to keep prices under pressure in early 2026 despite steady demand growth.
Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.

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:

Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.
Higher ethanol blend rates translate directly into stronger, more durable corn demand if regulatory momentum holds.
Long-term demand uncertainty is reshaping specialty crop strategies as producers adapt to fewer, older consumers.
Seasonal boxed beef softness does not change the tight-supply outlook — leverage remains closer to the farm gate heading into 2026.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.