Mid City Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) recently addressed the House Committee on Agriculture during the Committee’s Member Day Hearing, emphasizing the need for fair labeling guidelines on cell-cultivated and plant-based imitation meats. As the Representative for Texas’ 25th District, Williams spoke on behalf of the farmers and ranchers in his constituency, who have expressed concerns about the lack of oversight and confusion surrounding these products.

Williams acknowledged the growing popularity of plant-based imitation meats made with ingredients like soy and wheat, which closely resemble traditional meat products. However, he highlighted the concerning lack of regulation in the labeling of these products, which has led to confusion among consumers. He also raised the issue of lab-grown poultry, or "cell-cultivated chicken," which was approved for sale earlier this year by the FDA and USDA.

In his remarks, Williams stressed the importance of learning from the lack of oversight on plant-based imitation meats and implementing forward-thinking protections for consumers. Drawing on his experience as the Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business and as the owner of a car dealership and calf cow operation in Texas, Williams emphasized the need for accurate and honest labeling without interfering with the free market.

"We are a country of competition - of risk and reward - and the federal government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers," Williams stated. He emphasized the role of competition in driving innovation and allowing individuals and businesses to choose the products that best suit their needs.

Williams highlighted the existing guidelines and regulations surrounding the labeling and marketing of traditional meat-based products by the FDA and USDA. He called for similar requirements for imitation and lab-grown products to create a level playing field and support a free market in the agricultural industry.

Working alongside Congressman Alford, who also serves on the House Committee on Small Business, Williams expressed his commitment to protecting the American people and the ranching and farming communities from exploitation as the imitation and lab-grown product industry continues to grow.

In conclusion, Williams thanked the Committee on Agriculture for the opportunity to address this important issue and expressed his eagerness to collaborate with them to support farmers and ranchers. He emphasized the significance of fair labeling guidelines and consumer protection in the agricultural industry.

Williams' remarks shed light on the need for regulatory measures to ensure accurate labeling of plant-based imitation meats and lab-grown products. As the agricultural industry evolves, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and consumer transparency.

To find out more, go to this link: https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-williams-gives-remarks-lab-grown-and-plant-based-meats