New poultry and pork rules aim to cut costs and boost supply
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced proposed changes to federal line speed regulations for pork and poultry processing plants operating under modern inspection systems. The goal of these updates is to lower production costs, improve efficiency, and strengthen the nation’s food supply while maintaining strong food safety standards.
“As Secretary, my responsibility is to ensure that American families have access to affordable, safe, and abundant food. These updates remove outdated bottlenecks so that we can lower production costs and create greater stability in our food system,” said Secretary Rollins.
“By bringing our regulations in line with proven, real-world capabilities, we are supporting a stronger supply chain, giving producers and processors the certainty they need, and helping keep groceries more affordable for every household,” said Rollins.
Under the proposal, eligible pork and poultry establishments will be allowed to operate at speeds supported by their equipment, processes, and proven food safety performance. The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) will continue full oversight in every facility. Federal inspectors would still have the authority to slow down or stop operations if inspections cannot be performed effectively.
For years, many establishments have operated under temporary waivers and pilot programs. These proposals would replace that patchwork system with consistent, long-term rules. This change is intended to provide stability and clarity for processors across the country.
The proposal will also remove worker safety attestations that fall outside USDA’s legal authority. Officials say this step would reduce unnecessary paperwork and eliminate regulatory overlap.
The announcement reflects the administration’s broader effort to reduce red tape, support domestic meat production, and strengthen the American food system. USDA emphasized that affordability and food safety can work together.
The agency is inviting public comments on the proposed rules. Comments will be accepted for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. Additional information will be available on regulations.gov.
“The Meat Institute has supported changes to line speed rules for pork and poultry processing through four Administrations. We applaud the leadership of the Trump Administration in what we hope will be the final action to modernize FSIS rules and procedures to allow for innovation in processing and to increase production,” said Meat Institute President and CEO, Julie Anna Potts. “With this long overdue regulatory certainty, our member companies can invest in their operations to continue growth of the processing sector which benefits the consumer with more affordable and nutritious food.”
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