WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has launched a national campaign to promote its voluntary “Product of USA” labeling standard for meat, poultry, and egg products, aimed at improving transparency for consumers and supporting domestic producers.

The label, which took effect Jan. 1, 2026, is reserved for products from animals that were born, raised, harvested, and processed entirely in the United States. Federal officials said the updated standard replaces prior practices that allowed imported products to carry the label after limited processing.

According to the USDA, the campaign is intended to help producers understand the requirements while giving consumers clearer information about the origin of their food.

The designation is voluntary, but companies that choose to use the label must meet the full criteria. Officials say the change is designed to align labeling with consumer expectations and provide a more verifiable standard.

The announcement coincides with broader efforts to support domestic agriculture. USDA data cited in the release shows the U.S. has lost more than 100,000 family farms since 2017, while the national cattle herd has reached a 75-year low. At the same time, demand for beef has increased over the past decade.

Federal officials said the labeling effort is part of a larger initiative focused on strengthening the American food supply chain, improving competition, and increasing consumer confidence in food sourcing.

More information about the labeling program is available through the USDA.