USDA Introduces Nutritional Labels On Meat To Help Consumers Make Informed Decisions

Starting in 2012 the USDA will require all meat suppliers to put nutritional labels on 40 of the most popular pieces of meat. The information provided on the new labels, such as calorie and fat counts, allows consumers to make better decisions on just what type of meat is healthier for them. Nutritional labeling also brings meat products up to the level required on other food. The U.S. currently processes 15% of the world's meat and Americans on average eat almost 8 ounces a day, about double the world's average. This new transparency on meat products could prove harmful to suppliers as consumers see the 350 calories and the amount of saturated fat in just 4 ounces of 73% lean ground beef.