Disappointment Over Court Denial

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association - one of those suing USDA over their rewrite of Country of Origin Labeling - is disappointed their preliminary injunction request was denied by a District Court Judge. NCBA's Chase Adams says the decision just means more costs for cattle producers and processors

Adams: "We'd hoped that the court would have understand that this failed rule by the USDA is going to cost the industry in excess of $100 million in record keeping and increased labeling costs. All for a rule that we see as likely to be found not to meet with our international trade obligations."

Adams says NCBA is not against labeling - but would like to see a voluntary labeling program.

Adams: "Cattlemen and women don't oppose labeling, we oppose mandatory government-run labeling. At a time we've seen studies like the Kansas State study that show consumers have little or no interest in origin-labeling and Country of Origin Labeling has been a failure, we've continually supported voluntary and industry-led labeling."

Adams says industry-led labeling has a proven track record of providing value to consumers - and at the same time - provides producers with some real, valuable premiums. He didn't say whether or not they'll appeal the judge's decision - but did note that preliminary injunctions are always extraordinary legal relief measures - and that the court case will continue.