Bill > H471

This bill establishes comprehensive labeling requirements for manufactured-protein food products, which include cell-cultured and insect-protein foods that resemble traditional meat or poultry products. The legislation requires manufacturers to clearly label these alternative protein products with qualifying terms like "cell-cultured," "lab-grown," or "insect-based" in close proximity to identifying meat or poultry terms on product packaging. Additionally, the bill mandates that restaurants disclose the use of manufactured-protein food products on their menus, requiring a parenthetical statement immediately following the item's name that clearly indicates the product is artificially or lab-created. These labeling requirements apply to both meat and poultry products derived from agricultural animals and poultry, and are designed to provide consumers with transparent information about the nature and origin of the food products they are purchasing or consuming. The bill will become effective on October 1, 2025, and will apply to products sold or offered for sale on or after that date, giving manufacturers and food service establishments time to update their labeling and menu practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H471