The new Country of Origin Labeling requirements took effect in the U.S. on
September 30, 2008. Most non-processed beef, pork and chicken sold in
grocery stores must be labeled with the countries in which the animals were raised and slaughtered. There are a number of potential outcomes from
COOL. The law could be loosely enforced or repealed. Packers may make
widespread use of multi country labels. In this case COOL is likely to have
little impact on pork or hog trade between the U.S. and Canada. Canadian
pork has the potential to develop into a niche market and sell at a premium to
U.S. pork. U.S. retailers may resist handling more than one label, causing
packers to resist buying hogs born in Canada. Time will tell.