To the editor:
In 2015, the repeal of the Country-Of-Origin-Labeling (C.O.O.L.) rule, driven by meatpacker lobbying and World Trade Organization pressures, significantly impacted American consumers. This rule once mandated clear labeling on beef and pork products, indicating their countries of origin. Its removal has led to a troubling lack of transparency in our food sources.
Consider this: The steak on your plate, labeled as a "Product of the USA," may actually originate from Brazil or elsewhere. It only has to be packaged in the States to get that label. This misleading practice conceals the true origins of our meat, denying consumers the right to make fully-informed choices. It's not just about preference; it’s about the right to know where our food comes from.
The motivation for repealing C.O.O.L stemmed largely from heavy lobbying by the meatpacking industry. The repeal of C.O.O.L. was never debated publicly and was covertly tacked onto an omnibus bill by our congress and signed by our president in 2015. This move served the interests of a few powerful players at the expense of our right to know where our food comes from. That’s not to mention the damage it has done to our cattle ranchers.
The loss of C.O.O.L. reflects a broader issue of industry influence over policy, where consumer rights are sidelined. It's crucial for us to recognize this and advocate for reinstatement of transparent, honest food labeling. Knowing the origin of our food is a fundamental consumer right, one that should be protected and upheld.
Editor’s note: Roth has stated his intention to file as a candidate to run for Missouri’s 8th District, U.S. House of Representatives.
