Industry gets more time to provide input on US beef grading standards
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing beef industry stakeholders with more time to share feedback on possible updates to the nation's beef grade standards.
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced that it has extended the public comment period regarding potential revisions to U.S. beef grading standards. The extension follows a request from industry groups seeking additional time to review the proposal and prepare comments.
AMS originally published a Request for Information (RFI) in the Federal Register on July 8, 2026. The notice invited feedback from producers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, food service companies, and consumers on whether current beef grade standards should be updated to better meet the needs of today's marketplace.
The original 60-day comment period was scheduled to end on September 8, 2026. However, after receiving a request from the industry for more time, AMS extended the deadline by an additional 90 days. Comments can now be submitted through December 7, 2026.
The review was initiated after the American Wagyu Association asked AMS to evaluate existing beef grade standards and consider potential revisions. The agency is seeking broad input from all sectors of the beef supply chain before making any decisions.
USDA beef grade standards are used to evaluate important carcass characteristics that help determine product quality and value. Factors assessed include marbling, meat yield, fat cover, ribeye area, and certain carcass conditions such as dark cutting beef.
These standards help buyers and sellers communicate product quality consistently across the marketplace. They are widely used by producers, meat processors, retailers, restaurants, and food distributors.
AMS emphasized that beef grades focus on quality characteristics and marketing standards. They do not determine whether beef is safe to eat. Food safety inspections are conducted separately by the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) before grading takes place.
The agency encourages all interested stakeholders to participate in the review process and share their perspectives on how grading standards can better reflect the needs of the modern beef industry.
The extended comment period provides additional opportunities for producers, packers, retailers, food service operators, industry organizations, and consumers to contribute valuable feedback. Input received during the review will help AMS evaluate whether changes to the grading system are necessary and beneficial.
Stakeholders interested in providing comments can do so until December 7, 2026, as USDA continues its assessment of U.S. beef grade standards and their role in supporting a competitive and transparent beef market.
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