WTO Rules in Favor of Canada, Mexico on COOL

The Wall Street Journal reports the World Trade Organization has sided with Canada and Mexico in regards to U.S. Country of Origin Labeling rules. the Wall Street Journal, cited “sources familiar with the panel’s confidential report.” Canada and Mexico have asked for the World Trade Organization’s help against new U.S. COOL rules, which they say are more restrictive and harmful to beef cattle and pigs imported into the U.S. than an earlier version of the legislation that was found to violate WTO rules, according to Meatingplace.  In July, the WTO decision was provided to the governments, but will not be made public until it’s translated which could be weeks or months.  WTO rules give the United States 60 days to appeal from the date the report is published.

Supporters of COOL say U.S consumers have a right to know where their food originates from.  Opponents say the rule would be costly and burdensome.  Last month, a U.S. Appeals court in D.C. upheld COOL rules.  The nine judges who ruled in favor of USDA’s rules stated the government has a “substantial” interest in requiring meat processors to label where livestock was born, raised and slaughtered, including food safety concerns.

Source:  NAFB News