Federal Issues
At the national level, the CPF is best known for its efforts to reform the labeling of "fresh" poultry, when congress went bowling with frozen turkeys in the hallways of the Cannon and Rayburn Building. However, there are many other national issues on which the CPF represents its members' interests in the nation's capital.
Rendering
Is a process that converts waste animal tissue into stable, value-added materials. Rendering can refer to any processing of animal byproducts into more useful materials, or more narrowly to the rendering of whole animal fatty tissue into purified fats like lard or tallow. The most common animal sources are beef, pork, sheep, and poultry.
Currently, California’s rendering plants are running at maximum capacity on a regular basis. When there is any type of animal disaster (ie. heat wave or disease outbreak that causes excessive mortality) the rendering plants have to send extra carcasses to landfill which poses many environmental hazards. The most viable option is to allow expansion of rendering capacity in California.
Biofuels
We believe in producing alternative fuels and reducing the reliance on foreign petroleum products. However, is an extremely high cost of turning food into fuel. Corn is a main feed source for the livestock and poultry industries. Corn is also used in most processed food items and when it is diverted to making ethanol, it drives up the cost of basic foods for the consumers. Food-to-fuel mandates are causing increased environmental damage, driving up the price of agricultural staples, and higher food prices on basic products.
Although the Renewable Fuels Standard is a federal mandate, we support any action from California and other states to lower the subsidy or tariff on corn-based ethanol.
Taxes and Worker’s Compensation
The California Poultry industry employs more than 25,000 Californians each year. Poultry products have sales in excess of $2.5 billion annually. The industry is very concern is legislation that has to deal with rising taxes and worker’s compensation costs. The industry already prides itself on the exemplary treatment industry employees receive. One of the highest costs of doing business in California is labor, and any increase in workers compensation and new tax legislation can severely burden the industry.
Animal Rights
The industry gives much attention and care to animal welfare. Rigorous standards are already followed to treat birds humanely. When the birds are treated humanely, they produce a better product and it is a win-win for the bird and the industry.
Truthful Labeling Coalition (TLC)
The California Poultry Federation is a part of the Truthful Labeling Coalition. The coalition is focused on revamping the current labeling requirements set by the US Department of Agriculture. This will ensure that the food you buy is safe and wholesome. Currently, poultry products from other states can be labeled “100% Natural” yet have up to 15% saltwater and other additives injected into the meat. By purchasing this product, the consumer is paying for added water weight while under the impression that they are consuming a natural product. By revamping the USDA definition of “Natural” you will be able to rest assured that the food you eat is clearly and accurately labeled. All Natural will mean All Natural!
Comprehensive Immigration Reform
The need for immigration reform is still urgent. CPF urges support of comprehensive immigration reform, including co-sponsorship of the forthcoming E-Verify Extension and Expansion Act. This will extend and improve the E-Verify program. We oppose any legislation that makes employee verification more burdensome and expensive for both the government and private sector.
Industry Info 