HOT TOPIC!!!! 

USDA CONTINUES TO HAVE MORE THAN 4 WEEK DELAYS IN LABEL APPROVALS!

 Establishments are encouraged to submit labels early in the marketing process as USDA turnaround lengthens.  While USDA states their goal is much less...the current turnaround continues to block manufacturers from implementing innovative marketing concepts.  Special claims cannot be generically approved in-house and companies are required to seek USDA approval.  As of this report the current turnaround is almost 30 business days.