1. Update on NAIS and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) What is COOL? – Food Labeling Program/Law – Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling – Introduced in 2002 Farm Bill-postponed – Modifications in the 2008 Farm Bill – Implement in September 30, 2008 – Country of origin would appear on certain “covered” products.

2. Update on NAIS and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) What does it mean to producers? – Animals in the US with documentation prior to July 15, 2008 are considered US origin – Records must be maintained for 1 year. – Processing facilities need access or maintain copies of records

3. Update on NAIS and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) What records will work for your ranch? – Producer affidavit is considered acceptable documentation—Responsible party needs first hand knowledge and records to back up the affidavit. – Regular business records will provide verification Examples: eartags with records, calving books, herd inventories, purchase receipts, sales receipts, financial records, health papers, QSA, PVP programs. USDA publishes a list of example records – Participation in the NAIS program

4. Update on NAIS and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) How does NAIS fit into the picture? – Participation in the NAIS is appropriate documentation Premises ID Use of approved 840 eartags.

5. Update on NAIS and the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) What should you do? – Stay informed about COOL and the NAIS – Take a serious look at your record keeping system – Consider participating in the voluntary NAIS – Look for ways to improve your record keeping system to satisfy COOL requirements