FSIS Reopens Comment Period on Labeling for Mechanically Tenderized Beef

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has reopened the comment period on a proposed rule concerning the description designation for needle- or blade-tenderized beef. First published in the June 10, 2013, Federal Register, the proposed rule would require “the descriptive designation ‘mechanically-tenderized’ on the labels of raw or partially-cooked needle- or blade tenderized beef products, including beef products injected with marinade or solution, unless these products are to be fully cooked at an official establishment.” Because the first comment period expired during the recent partial government shutdown, the agency will now accept feedback until December 24, 2013. Additional details about the proposed rule appear in Issue 486 of this Update. See Federal Register, December 3, 2013.