The Real MEAT (Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully) Act of 2019 was introduced by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE).
The bill is a companion to H.R. 4881, which was introduced by U.S. Reps. Roger Marshall (R-KS-1) and Anthony Brindisi (D-NY-22) in October.
“Beef is derived from cattle—period,” Fischer said. “Under USDA, beef undergoes a rigorous inspection and labeling process, but plant-based protein products that mimic beef and are sometimes labeled as beef are overseen by the [Food and Drug Administration] instead. These products are not held to the same food safety and labeling standards as beef.”
The bill will codify the definition of beef for labeling purposes, reinforce existing misbranding provisions, and enhance the federal government’s ability to enforce proper labeling.
