AG DEPARTMENT KILLS WELFARE RULE FOR ORGANIC MEAT

IOWA» New rules, decades DES MOINES, in the making, that would have required organic meat and egg producers to abide by stricter animal welfare standards were withdrawn by the federal government on Monday, frustrating organic farmers and animal welfare groups but leaving some traditional egg and livestock farm groups rejoicing.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices rule exceeds the department’s statutory authority.

“The organic industry’s continued growth domestically and globally shows that consumers trust the current approach that balances consumer expectations and the needs of organic producers and handlers,” said USDA Marketing and Regulatory Program Undersecretary Greg Ibach.

The rule was published by former President Barack Obama’s Agriculture Department two days before he left office in January 2017. The administration of Donald Trump has repeatedly delayed implementing the rule. The regulation was designed to ensure that organically grown livestock had enough space to lie down, turn around, stand up and fully stretch. It also required fresh air, proper ventilation and direct sunlight.