Bill > LB658

This bill introduces new labeling and advertising requirements for manufactured-protein food products in Nebraska, which include cultivated-protein, insect-protein, and plant-protein products that mimic the sensory attributes of meat. The bill defines several key terms, such as "agricultural food animal" (which includes livestock and poultry), "identifying meat term" (words that describe meat products), and "qualifying term" (words that clearly indicate the product is not traditional meat). The legislation mandates that any manufactured-protein food product using an identifying meat term must also prominently display a qualifying term nearby, both on labels and in advertisements, to prevent consumer confusion. Additionally, when such products are sold in food establishments, they must be stored separately from traditional meat products and use distinctive shelf tags or representations to differentiate them. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is empowered to investigate complaints about misbranded or falsely advertised food products, regardless of whether other agencies are already conducting food establishment inspections. These requirements aim to provide transparency for consumers about the nature and origin of alternative protein products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59045