By establishing a formal definition for natural cheese, SB981 could align state and federal regulations, potentially influencing the broader dairy industry. The bill’s amendments to existing provisions of food labeling laws are designed to strengthen consumer rights by ensuring that products labeled as natural adhere strictly to the established definition. This could lead to improved marketplace clarity and trust among consumers regarding the products they purchase.
Summary
SB981, known as the Codifying Useful Regulatory Definitions Act (CURD Act), seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by providing a clear and specific definition for the term 'natural cheese.' This definition is intended to help consumers distinguish between natural cheese and processed cheeses, clarifying regulatory standards. The bill outlines conditions under which cheese products can be labeled as 'natural cheese,' thereby enhancing consumer transparency within the dairy market.
Contention
There may be significant discussions around the implications of the bill, particularly concerning differentiation between natural and processed cheese products. Industry stakeholders could have differing opinions, particularly manufacturers of processed cheese who may find their products adversely affected by these distinctions. Critics could argue that the bill may create unnecessary restrictions that impede the innovation and versatility of cheese products available to consumers.
Codifying Useful Regulatory Definitions Act or the CURD ActThis bill establishes a statutory definition for natural cheese. Under the bill, natural cheese is defined as cheese (ripened or unripened soft, semi-soft, or hard) that is produced from animal milk or certain dairy ingredients and is produced in accordance with established cheese-making standards. The definition excludes pasteurized process cheeses, cheese foods, and cheese spreads.A food that does not meet this definition is deemed misbranded and may not be sold if its label includes the term natural cheese as a factual descriptor of a category of cheese.