The Country of Origin Labeling system known as COOL took effect this year after many years of discussion. Basically it requires retailers to label their beef (and other items) with the country where it came from. This is a good thing for consumers who want to purchase only US raised beef and maybe locally produced items for their dinner tables. There are all kinds of rules and exceptions as with any government idea but in general it works pretty well. Next time you go to the grocery store look carefully at the label and it should tell you the origin, or in some cases there is simply a sign above the meat area. My local butcher started out with a sign saying “beef from USA, Mexico and Canada”. It only took two weeks for customers to let him know they only wanted US beef – which is all they carry now.
If you want all the details about COOL go to www.ams.usda.gov/cool.