Meat and poultry companies face a growing patchwork of state packaging and labeling laws that use different definitions for terms such as "recyclable," "compostable," "reusable," and "recycled content." These varying requirements create compliance challenges for businesses operating across state lines and can make environmental claims more difficult for consumers to understand.

Packaging plays a critical role in the meat and poultry industry by helping prevent contamination, extending shelf life, and protecting products throughout refrigerated and frozen distribution. Even modest packaging modifications often require extensive testing and operational adjustments to maintain food safety and performance standards. Meat Institute members have invested significantly in reducing packaging materials and preventing food waste while meeting consumer expectations for safe, high-quality products.

The Meat Institute believes a uniform federal framework would provide greater certainty for continued packaging innovation, support sustainability goals, and ensure consumers receive consistent information regardless of where products are sold. By replacing conflicting state requirements with a national standard, the RMAA and PACK Act would help strengthen consumer confidence and improve the effectiveness of environmental marketing claims.

"We appreciate Chairman Gus Bilirakis, Ranking Member Jan Schakowsky, and members of the Subcommittee for their leadership on these important issues," Potts said. "The Meat Institute looks forward to working with Congress to advance practical solutions that benefit consumers, manufacturers, and the environment."

Source: Meat Institute