Mississippi House Bill HB1305

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

Meat labeling; require accurate labeling of meat and nonmeat products by processors, retail and food establishments prior to final sale.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1305 will significantly affect state laws related to food labeling and consumer rights. It mandates the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce to inspect products based upon credible complaints about misbranding. Violations of the new labeling requirements will be subject to civil penalties, potentially reaching up to $10,000 in total for repeated offenses. The enforcement of these regulations aims to uphold food integrity and safety in the marketplace.

Summary

House Bill 1305 establishes labeling requirements for meat and meat substitute products in Mississippi. The bill aims to prevent consumer confusion by ensuring that consumers are informed about the authenticity of meat products at the point of sale. Key provisions include the requirement for food processing plants and retail establishments to clearly label products as either meat or nonmeat, particularly for cultivated and manufactured protein products. The intention is to facilitate informed consumer choices and to maintain public trust in food products offered for sale.

Contention

While HB 1305 is designed to protect consumers, it has sparked discussions regarding the balance between consumer protection and the operational flexibility of food businesses. Critics argue that the bill could impose additional regulatory burdens on food establishments, particularly smaller retailers who might struggle to adapt to the new labeling requirements. Proponents contend that clear labeling is essential for consumer safety and transparency, suggesting that the bill will ultimately enhance the reputation of Mississippi's agricultural products.