ICYMI – Livestock and poultry farmers will face new animal welfare requirements to qualify for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “organic” label. Once published, producers will need to be in compliance within 60 days.
New standards require animals to have year-round outdoor access, and shelter must allow livestock to lie down, stand up and turn around. Producers must also maintain preventative health care practices and treat animals with medicine to “minimize pain, stress and suffering.”
Source: AGRICULTUREDIVE, October 26, 2023. Link.
I think it’s fair to say this is the most significant update in organic regulations in over 30 years,” – USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack