USDA Tweaks Chill Rules for Meat From Foot-and-Mouth Regions
Published Date: 10/20/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The USDA wants to lower the minimum maturation temperature for beef and sheep meat from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) regions from 4°C to 2°C. This change helps match global health standards while keeping the U.S. safe from FMD. Meat importers and regulators should weigh in by December 21, 2026, as the update could affect how meat is processed and shipped.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Minimum maturation temperature lowered to 2°C
The USDA proposes to change the required maturation temperature for fresh boneless beef and ovine meat from regions affected with foot‑and‑mouth disease from 4°C to 2°C (i.e., amend Sec. 94.29 to allow 35.6 to 50°F / 2 to 10°C). All other import conditions remain the same. Comments are due by December 21, 2026.
Modeled net welfare gain if imports rise
APHIS modeled a hypothetical increase of 500 to 5,000 metric tons of additional imported beef from affected countries and estimated positive net welfare impacts ranging from $192,000 to $1.92 million (consumer gains outweigh producer losses) under those scenarios. The rule text frames these as hypothetical indirect effects rather than expected outcomes.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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