Animal Identification: Overview and Issues
US - Livestock industry groups, animal health officials, and the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) have been working to establish a nationwide identification (ID)
system capable of quickly tracking animals from birth to slaughter, in order to combat
a serious animal disease and/or to satisfy foreign market specifications. Some consumer
groups are among those who believe ID also would be useful for food safety or retail
labeling purposes. Some producers oppose new programs, fearing they will be costly
and intrusive. In the 110th Congress as of April 2007, one related bill (H.R. 1018) had
been introduced; it would prohibit a mandatory program. Lawmakers could be asked
to consider this or other measures on the topic, possibly as part of a 2007 farm bill.
3 May 2007
2 minute read
