Here is All You Need to Know About MCOOL

     According to the USDA talking points released yesterday (1/12/2009) regarding the final estimates for implementing country of origin labeling:

1. The first year implementation costs for directly affected firms is estimated to be 2.629 billion dollars.

2. Costs per firm are estimated to be $370 for each producer, $48,219 for intermediaries, and $254,685 for each retailer.

3. The estimated cost in higher food prices and reduced food production in the tenth year after implementation is 211.9 million dollars.

     Now for the benefits expected:

     "The expected benefits from the implementation of this rule are difficult to quantify.  The Agency's conclusion remains unchanged, which is that the economic benefits will be small and will accrue mainly to those consumers who desire country of origin information."