|
Rule would reduce limits of synthetic methionine in organic poultry production
Story Date: 2/6/2012
| |
Source: Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 2/3/12
The U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to publish a proposed rule that would continue the allowance of synthetic methionine in organic poultry production, although at reduced levels from the current allowable levels. The rule will be published Feb. 6.
The current allowance for synthetic methionine expires Oct. 1, 2012, and allows four pounds per ton of feed for laying chickens; five pounds per ton of feed for broiler chickens; and six pounds per ton of feed for turkeys and other poultry. The proposed rule would permit organic poultry producers to use synthetic methionine after Oct. 1 at the following maximum levels: two pounds per ton of feed for laying and broiler chickens and three pounds per ton for turkeys and all other poultry.
Methionine is classified as an essential amino acid and is required for proper cell development and feathering. Poultry animals cannot biologically produce methionine on their own.
The proposed rule reflects the recommendations of the National Organic Standards Board, an independent body of organic industry and stakeholder representatives that advises the Secretary of Agriculture on aspects of the USDA organic regulations. The board determined that the proposed reduced levels of synthetic methionine, developed in consultation with animal welfare experts and nutritionists, are sufficient for poultry maintenance but do not enhance animal growth.
The full deliberations of the board are available at http://www.regulations.gov/(search for keyword or ID AMS-NOP-11-0063; NOP-11-11PR). Comments may be submitted there through April 6, 2012.
For more stories, go to http://www.meatingplace.com/.
|
|
|
|
