On March 11, 2024, the USDA announced the finalized rule regarding the use of the “Product of USA” label. The Product of USA rule allows the voluntary Product of USA or “Made in the USA” label claim to be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when they are derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the U.S.

In a world where it’s difficult to get anyone to agree on anything, the court of public opinion leans heavily in favor of a reduction in greenhouse gases within our agricultural supply chain. But how to accomplish that goal – and who in the chain is ultimately responsible for it – are other matters altogether.

While the animal feed industry has made great strides in pushing for a modernized feed regulatory environment that keeps pace with scientific advancements in animal nutrition and international competition, hurdles remain.

In this podcast episode, Managing Editor David Cooper sits down with Jay Theiler, executive vice president of AgriBeef, and discusses the opening of a new packing plant in Jerome, Idaho, and the supply and demand dynamics that make or break a packing plant. Also, catch a preview of the November issue, and find out what the podcast crew considers must-haves for Thanksgiving dinner.

A cattle operation's feeding and nutrition program is the single-largest ongoing production expense and the one that may require the greatest amount of time, focus and planning to manage. It may also be the most variable, depending on the region and operations themselves.