September 17, 2007

USDA releases final rule on Canadian cattle imports

The US Agriculture Department on Friday (September 14) issued its final ruling on Canadian beef and cattle imports to the United States.

Canadian cattle were banned by Washington over mad cow disease concerns.

Under the new rule, Canada will be allowed to ship to the US, cattle born on or after March 1, 1999. Meat from the older animals also could be shipped.

The new regulation would expand current rules that allow import of cattle under 30 months of age to the United States for slaughter, and imports of beef from younger cattle are allowed.

The final rule is scheduled for publication in the September 18 federal register and becomes effective on November 19.