USDA has established Beef Export Verification (EV) Program requirements for selling beef internationally.The specific requirements for each country are outlined, including what products may be exported, processing regulations and stipulations for the cattle producing the beef. In the case of Japan, a specific requirement is that the beef be from cattle of 20 months of age or less. For most other countries (Hong Kong, Mexico and Canada), the age requirement is 30 months or less.These EV age regulations must be met through cattle from a USDA Process Verified Program that requires age verification or from a USDA QSA Program that requires age verification. Simply put, beef is not eligible for export to Japan unless it comes from cattle less than 20 months of age and from cattle certified through a PVP or QSA.

So What Does This Mean to Me – A Cow-Calf Producer?

Age and source verification have taken on a new meaning. For calves to be truly source and age verified, they must be enrolled in a PVP or QSA as previously described. Simply stating “source and age verified” may quickly become equivalent to stating the cattle “have had all their shots.” It has been established that a signed affidavit will not substitute for documentation provided through a USDA approved PVP or QSA.

If you'd like to like to enroll your cattle in a verification program or receive information about the different programs that are available, give us a call at (303)-895-3002 or visit us at www.USVerified.com