USDA Seeks Input on Meat Labels: Help Make Chicken Packaging Clearer
Published Date: 3/4/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Agriculture wants your thoughts on how it collects info about labeling meat, poultry, and egg products. This helps make sure labels are clear and useful without causing extra hassle. If you’re involved in food packaging or safety, you’ve got until April 3, 2026, to share your feedback—no extra costs, just your voice!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Label Approval and Recordkeeping Rules
Meat, poultry, and egg establishments must submit labels for FSIS approval unless the labels are generically approved, using FSIS Form 7234-1 as required by 9 CFR 412.1. Establishments must keep copies of all labels plus product formulation, processing procedures, and any supporting documentation; this information collection covers 255,578 respondents with a total of 121,867 burden hours.
Certification Requirement for Marking Devices
The information collection includes certification of marking devices used on meat, poultry, and egg products, as part of FSIS regulatory requirements for marking and labeling (OMB Control Number 0583-0092). Businesses that use marking devices must follow FSIS certification processes included in this collection.
Label Reconsideration Process Available
If FSIS modifies or rejects a label application under 9 CFR 500.8, establishments may request reconsideration using the "Request for Label Reconsideration," FSIS Form 8822-4. This provides a formal avenue for establishments to seek review of modified or rejected label approvals.
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Key Dates
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