NFU Supports USDA-FDA Joint Oversight of Cell Culture Technology

The National Farmers Union supports efforts by the USDA and the Food and Drug Administration to establish a joint regulatory framework overseeing the production and sale of animal cell culture technology. NFU President Roger Johnson is asking the agencies to provide clarity to consumers as to whether or not they are purchasing meat products raised in a traditional manner or products grown in a lab. “Animal cell culture technology needs to be regulated and should include roles for both the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service and the FDA,” Johnson says. “it’s important that this joint regulatory framework promotes fair competition for producers and the health and safety of consumers.” Johnson points out that NFU members oppose labeling alternative protein sources as “meat.” The NFU policy says common names given to meat and animal products are widely understood by consumers to be the tissue and flesh of animals that have been slaughtered for food. “Lab-grown products are likely to be produced by large companies, including the major global meatpackers, which will exacerbate the anti-competitive practices that currently face farmers and ranchers,” Johnson adds. “Fairly and accurately labeling animal cell culture products would provide some protection for family farmers’ and ranchers” market share.”