On May 18, 2015, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) published its final rule on “Descriptive Designation for Needle- or Blade-Tenderized (Mechanically Tenderized) Beef Products” (http://1.usa.gov/1HsoLwN).
The final rule adopts, with minor modifications, the requirements proposed in the June 10, 2013, Federal Register. Under the final rule, the label of raw or partially cooked beef products that have been mechanically tenderized must bear a descriptor and validated cooking instructions. The rule will be effective in about one year: May 17, 2016.