From: jstepka@albertsorganics.com
Sent: Thursday, July 27, 2006 9:39 PM
To: MarketingClaim
Subject: comments



I would like to comment on the published for comment USDA grassfed claim,

docket #LS-05-00:



As the rule is currently written, 99% of feed must be from grass and forage,
including harvested grass and forage and corn silage. The 1% allows for some
supplementation and inadvertent feeding of grains.   This was the correct choice
by the USDA.



However, there is nothing in the definition that requires that these animals be
out on pasture.  This means that feedlots could feed harvested grass based on
the definition as written in the Federal Register and market that beef as
"grassfed."



As I consumer, I would think this is highly misleading and this is an
opportunity for the USDA to clarify what to consumers "grassfed" really means.  
The definition should be amended to say that only animals that have free access
to pasture and/or range should be allowed to label products as "grassfed."
Animals with no access to pasture should not be labeled as grassfed.





Sincerely, Joe Stepka