A survey of consumers indicates only 16 per cent understand
the Product of USA labels the government is proposing for meats.
Canadians object on the basis that it violates the Canada-U.S.-Mexico
(CUSMA) trade agreement and would depress prices for Canadian cattle and hogs.
Meat packers in the U.S. say it would increase costs to
segregate slaughter and processing lines for domestic and imported meats, yet
the United States Department of Agriculture estimates its proposals will cost
only $3 million.
The survey also found that consumers are willing to pay
more for products with the "Product of USA" claim and for products
with more production steps in the U.S., the USDA report said.
“The results highlight the need for improved
consumer understanding of the "Product of USA" claim and related USDA
labeling to ensure informed purchasing decisions,” it said.
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