The US Department of Agriculture Issues New Regulations for Organic Livestock

New Standards for Organic Livestock

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has finally released long-awaited regulations aimed at improving the living conditions of organic livestock. The new rules will require that organically raised chickens have regular access to outdoor pasture, closing loopholes that allowed some producers to meet requirements with open-air porches instead of actual pasture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack described this update as the most significant in organic regulations in over 30 years.

Public Input and Compliance

The USDA received more than 40,000 written comments on a draft version of the rule, with many addressing the minimum indoor and outdoor space requirements for livestock. Producers will have one year to comply with the regulations, although certain provisions, such as the outdoor access requirement for laying hens, have a five-year compliance timeline. This has brought much-needed relief to organic producers who have been waiting for a resolution to this lengthy rulemaking process.

Avian Flu Outbreak

In spring of 2022, organic chickens in the US and Europe were moved indoors due to a widespread outbreak of avian flu that threatened flocks globally. Despite the new regulations, the US confirmed its first case of avian flu on a commercial poultry farm since April, prompting concerns about the impact on the industry. Minnesota and Iowa have also reported their first outbreaks in commercial flocks since the previous winter.

It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of organic livestock, and these new regulations aim to do just that. By ensuring chickens have access to outdoor pasture, the USDA is closing loopholes that allowed some producers to bypass this essential requirement. The significant update in organic regulations will help maintain the integrity of organic products and give consumers greater confidence in the organic label.

The USDA has taken public input seriously, receiving over 40,000 comments on the draft version of the rule. This engagement demonstrates the importance of these regulations to farmers, consumers, and various stakeholders. The one-year compliance timeline allows producers to adjust their practices accordingly, while the five-year timeline for certain provisions ensures a smooth transition.

While the avian flu outbreak has posed challenges for organic chicken farming, it is essential to address the issue and find solutions to protect the industry. The confirmation of avian flu cases in the US highlights the ongoing threat to poultry farms and the need for proactive measures. The new regulations can serve as a framework for strengthening biosecurity measures and minimizing the risk of future outbreaks.