USDA Finally Swaps 'Catsup' for 'Ketchup' in Canned Tomato Rules
Published Date: 9/15/2025
Notice
Summary
The USDA is updating the rules for grading canned tomato products to make them clearer and easier to understand. They’re simplifying the grading terms, updating color descriptions, and switching from "catsup" to the more popular "ketchup." These changes help tomato producers and buyers know exactly what quality to expect, with no big costs or delays involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Grade Standards Simplified for Producers
The USDA revises seven U.S. grade standards for canned tomato products by updating color descriptions, replacing the two-term grading system (dual-nomenclature) with a single term, and making editorial changes. The rule also changes the spelling 'catsup' to the more commonly used term 'ketchup.' The agency says these changes help producers and involve no big costs or delays.
Buyers Get Clearer Quality Labels
Buyers of canned tomato products will see clearer grade information because the USDA updated color sections and replaced the dual-term grading system with a single term, and changed 'catsup' to 'ketchup.' The agency says these changes help buyers know what quality to expect and will not cause big costs or delays.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20095, United States Grain Standards Act Award of Designations
The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service just gave official thumbs-up to seven grain inspection groups across the U.S. These groups will keep making sure grain quality meets standards in their areas starting now, helping farmers and buyers trust their grain’s grade. If you’re in North Dakota, Omaha, Fremont, Champaign, Maryland, Enid, or Eastern Iowa, this news means smooth grain inspections ahead with no extra costs announced.
2026-19887, Almonds Grown in California; Extension of Inedible Disposition Obligation Deadline
California almond growers and handlers now have two extra months to handle inedible almonds, extending the deadline from September 30 to November 30 every year. This change helps them manage almond quality and market supply better without rushing. The new rule kicks in on October 29, 2026, giving the industry more flexibility and smoother operations.
2026-19623, National Organic Program: Notice of Intent To Extend and Revise a Previously Approved Information Collection (2027)
The USDA’s National Organic Program is planning to extend and update its paperwork rules for organic farmers and businesses through 2030. This means folks involved in organic farming will see some changes in how they report info, helping keep organic standards strong and clear. Comments on these updates are open until November 24, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!
2026-19420, Fruit Crops; Notice of Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection
The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service wants to keep collecting info about fruit crops and make some updates to how they do it. This affects fruit growers and businesses involved in federal marketing orders. They’re asking for your thoughts by November 23, 2026, and this helps keep fruit marketing smooth without extra costs.
2026-19389, Softwood Lumber Board Assessment Rate Clarification and Changes to Membership
Starting October 22, 2026, the Softwood Lumber Board is updating how it charges fees on imported softwood lumber and changing who gets to be on the Board. If you import softwood lumber or are involved with the Board, these changes could affect your costs and membership rules. This update keeps the lumber industry running smoothly and fairly.
2026-19177, Milk in the Northeast and Other Marketing Areas; Uniform Pricing Formula Provisions
The USDA fixed a pricing mistake for milk in Morgan County, Ohio, lowering the Class I differential from $3.90 to $3.80. They also removed Shannon County, South Dakota, from the pricing table. These changes affect dairy farmers and milk buyers in these areas and take effect on September 18, 2026.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-17770, Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Programs for Fiscal Year 2026
The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is gearing up to offer loans and grants to help rural communities grow in fiscal year 2026. While funding isn’t guaranteed yet, they expect about $50 million for loans and $10 million for grants, so now’s the time for rural businesses and organizations to get their applications ready. This early heads-up means you can plan, apply, and maybe score some serious support to boost your local economy!
Next: 2025-17774, Sunshine Act Meetings
The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is holding a public virtual meeting on July 18, 2025, to discuss important topics like housing discrimination, antisemitism on campuses, mental health in juvenile justice, and teacher shortages affecting students with disabilities. They’ll also vote on new committee appointments and planning reports. This open, livestreamed meeting keeps everyone in the loop without costing a dime to join!