Relating to meat and poultry inspection, by providing an exception for certain establishments engaged in the slaughter of poultry and the preparation of poultry products on a custom basis

BACKGROUND. This bill amends Iowa’s “Meat and Poultry Inspection Act” (MPIA) (Code chapter 189A), administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship (DALS) which regulates (licenses and inspects) a business engaged in the slaughter of livestock or poultry at its premises (establishment). The Code chapter regulates the establishment’s processing of livestock or poultry carcasses, and the preparation of meat products or poultry products derived from those carcasses (articles). STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY COOPERATION.2). In both cases, USDA regulates establishments engaged in interstate or foreign commerce but may regulate any establishment if it determines that the state enforcement of state statutes does not at least equal federal enforcement of the federal Acts. STATE INSPECTION EXCEPTION FOR CERTAIN ESTABLISHMENTS —— CUSTOM OPERATIONS.4). BILL’S PROVISIONS —— NEW CUSTOM OPERATION INSPECTION EXCEPTION FOR STATE-LICENSED POULTRY ESTABLISHMENTS. The bill adds another inspection exemption that also applies to a custom operation, and specifically to a state-licensed poultry establishment. The exemption is subject to certain conditions. First, the articles, whenever handled, and any containers or packages holding such articles, must be kept separate from other areas of the establishment. Second, the containers or packages must be marked “Not for Sale”. Finally, the entire establishment must be maintained and operated in a sanitary manner.