The passage of HB3866 will significantly impact how meat products derived from bison are marketed and labeled in the United States. By clarifying that the term 'buffalo' can still be used for North American bison while prohibiting its use in reference to Bubalus, the bill aims to ensure that consumers are not misled about the types of meat they are purchasing. This is particularly important for consumer protection and maintaining food labeling integrity within the agricultural sector. The bill also promotes more transparency in marketing practices associated with animal agriculture.
Summary
House Bill 3866, known as the Truth in Buffalo Labeling Act of 2023, aims to provide clarity regarding the labeling of bison meat in order to prevent consumer confusion. It specifically addresses the use of the term 'buffalo' in food labeling. The bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to state that if a food product contains animal products from the genus Bubalus, it cannot be labeled as 'buffalo' unless the term 'water buffalo' is specifically used. This clarification helps to distinguish between true buffalo and North American bison, commonly known as buffalo in a colloquial sense, including plains bison and wood bison.
Contention
While the bill aims to simplify labeling, it may raise concerns among certain stakeholders within the animal agriculture community. Critics argue that the clarification could complicate marketing strategies for bison producers who have previously benefitted from the broader interpretation of 'buffalo.' Additionally, there might be implications for traditional usage of the terms in local cultures and communities which could face pushback from those who view the terms as interchangeable. The discussions surrounding the bill reflect a tension between consumer protection and the interests of producers who prefer to have more flexibility in labeling their products.
Related
A bill to provide clarification regarding the common or usual name for bison and compliance with section 403 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and for other purposes.
A bill to provide clarification regarding the common or usual name for bison and compliance with section 403 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and for other purposes.
Animal Drug and Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2023 Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2023 Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2023