“These hearings allow us oversight over the COOL law so that we can ensure the most productive results for our farm families,” Ross said.  “They allow us to hear the good and bad about the law so we can make adjustments as needed.  As ranking member of this subcommittee, I felt it was important during this discussion to bring a representative of our catfish farmers to the table.  This is a unique industry with unique needs as far as COOL is concerned, and Hugh Warren’s testimony will help to ensure those needs are brought to light so any changes to the law will benefit our catfish farmers.”

The 2002 Farm Bill contained language requiring that retailers provide, starting on September 30, 2004, country of origin labeling on fresh fruits and vegetables, red meats, seafood, and peanuts.  Until then, the program is voluntary.

Wednesday’s hearing included input from the Administration, producers, packers, processors, and retailers who have had time to review the law and gauge its potential impact.

In his testimony, Warren said complying with COOL will not have an adverse impact on the catfish farming industry, as the industry already meets many COOL requirements through the mandatory Food and Drug Administration’s Hazard analysis Critical Central Point systems for food safety.

“In the United States, producers and processors have worked diligently to ensure that farm-raised catfish is safe, wholesome, and is just plain good to eat,” Warren told subcommittee members.  “I cannot imagine why anyone would want to hide the origin of their product and deny the consumer an informed choice.”