MCA pushes for revision to meat definition
Missouri Cattlemen’s Association President Greg Buckman recently testified in front of the Missouri Senate’s Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee. The hearing was on SB 977, sponsored by Sen. Sandy Crawford, R-28. The legislation, which is a priority for the association, prohibits misrepresenting a product as meat that is not derived from harvested production livestock or poultry.
“The legislation ensures the integrity of the meat supply here in the state. There are multi-million dollar investments occurring in a company called Memphis Meats, which is moving toward mass producing laboratory grown animal protein products,” said Buckman. “Calling this product meat without knowing the inspection process, the nutrient profile of these products, food safety or anything really is a disservice to farmers, ranchers and consumers.”
Buckman stated that the association is not necessarily opposed to cultured protein products. He said the association is focused on what he calls “food integrity.”
“It is important these products don’t misrepresent our industry. We care for our livestock and invest a lot of time and money in ensuring the consumer has a safe, nutritious and affordable product,” said Buckman, who is a cattleman in Hallsville. “These products or even plant-based products should not use nomenclature that confuses the consumer.”
He said while there are national efforts taking place to address protecting the definition of meat to only include products derived from actual livestock production, Missouri would be the first state to address this issue. Identical legislation (HB 2607) was filed recently in the House by Rep. Jeff Knight, R-129.
