If I see a USDA label on meat what does it mean?

When you see a USDA label on meat, it indicates that the meat has been inspected and meets certain standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). There are a few different types of USDA labels you might see on meat, each signifying something specific:

1. USDA Inspection Label (Mandatory)

1. “USDA Inspected” or “USDA Inspected and Passed”: This label means that the meat has been inspected by USDA inspectors to ensure it is safe and wholesome for human consumption. The inspection checks for any signs of disease or contamination. This inspection is mandatory for all meat and poultry products sold in the U.S.
2. Inspection Mark: Typically, the USDA inspection mark is a round stamp that states “U.S. Inspected and Passed by Department of Agriculture” with an establishment number indicating where the meat was processed.

2. USDA Grading Label (Voluntary)

1. “USDA Prime,” “USDA Choice,” or “USDA Select”: These labels indicate the quality of the meat, which is determined based on factors like marbling (the amount of intramuscular fat), color, and age of the animal.
2. USDA Prime: Highest quality, with abundant marbling. This grade is often found in high-end restaurants and some retail outlets.
3. USDA Choice: High quality, with less marbling than Prime but still very tender and flavorful. This is the most common grade found in grocery stores.
4. USDA Select: Leaner than Prime and Choice, with less marbling and usually a bit less tender and juicy. Suitable for those looking for leaner cuts.

3. USDA Organic Label

1. “USDA Organic”: If the meat also has a USDA Organic label, it means the livestock was raised following USDA organic standards, which include:
2. Raised on certified organic land.
3. Fed 100% organic feed.
4. No use of antibiotics or hormones.
5. Access to the outdoors and conditions that allow for natural behaviors.

4. Special Claims

1. “Grass-Fed,” “No Hormones Added,” or “Antibiotic-Free”: While these claims can be made without a USDA label, if they appear on a product with a USDA label, they have been verified by the USDA. For example, “grass-fed” means that the animals were fed only grass and forage throughout their lives, and “no hormones added” means that no hormones were used during the raising of the animals.

Summary

In short, a USDA label on meat signifies that the meat has been inspected for safety and quality, with specific labels providing information about the grade, production methods, or adherence to organic standards. These labels help consumers make informed choices about the meat products they purchase.

Here are different types of USDA and other approved labels

https://www.farmaid.org/food-labels-explained/

https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/labeling