Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) is a labeling law that requires retailers, such as full-line grocery stores, supermarkets and club warehouse stores, to notify their customers with information regarding the source of certain foods. Food products covered by the law include muscle cut and ground meats: lamb, goat, and chicken; wild and farm-raised fish and shellfish; fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables; peanuts, pecans, and macadamia nuts; and ginseng.
Regulations for fish and shellfish covered commodities (7 CFR Part 60) became effective in 2005. The final rule for all covered commodities (7 CFR Part 60 and 7 CFR Part 65) went into effect on March 16, 2009. AMS is responsible for administration and enforcement of COOL.
- February 2016 Final Rule - Removal of Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling Requirements for Beef and Pork Muscle Cuts, Ground Beef, and Ground Pork (pdf)
- FAQs: Repeal of COOL Requirements for Beef and Pork (pdf)
- May 2013 Final Rule to Amend Meat Labeling
- January 2009 Final Rule Implementing Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling
- Abbreviations Guidance
- Labeling Options (pdf)
- PACA Commodities List (pdf)
- Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications (IMPS)
Additional Resources