USDA Releases Interim Report on Meat Industry Practices

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its Interim Report: Competition and Fair Practices in Meat Merchandising.

The report delves into how retail concentration and certain business practices are affecting competition within the meat industry, with a particular emphasis on the beef sector.

This report follows President Biden’s 2021 Executive Order No. 14036, which instructed federal agencies to foster fair competition across various industries.

In response, the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) conducted an extensive investigation into the meat markets, assessing competition levels and practices governed by the Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act).

Key findings indicate that several practices currently employed in the meat merchandising industry might be suppressing fair competition.

As a result, the USDA has stressed the importance of enforcing existing laws more rigorously to ensure fairness for producers and consumers alike.

While the interim report stops short of introducing new regulations, it highlights the USDA’s intent to closely monitor the industry and strengthen the enforcement of the P&S Act.

The final report, which will contain more detailed findings and recommendations, is expected in the near future.

This effort signals a push toward greater transparency and fairness in the meat industry, aiming to create a level playing field for all involved parties.

To learn how new USDA reports may shape the future of meat industry practices, check out our homepage.