Classes of Poultry, 21706-21709 [2016-08488]

Download as PDF 21706 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 71 / Wednesday, April 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations between September 2 and December 31, unless otherwise specified by the Deputy Administrator. ■ 7. Revise § 1430.108 to read as follows: jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES § 1430.108 Margin protection payments. (a) When do MPP-Dairy payments trigger? An MPP-Dairy payment will be made to a participating dairy operation for any consecutive 2-month period when the average actual dairy production margin for the consecutive 2-month period falls below the coverage level threshold in effect for the participating dairy operation. Payments may trigger at either the elected buy-up level if purchased by the dairy operation, or the catastrophic level. (b) How will payments be calculated? Whether payments trigger at the catastrophic level or at the buy-up level, the payments will be calculated as explained in this paragraph. If the dairy operation only has catastrophic coverage or buy-up coverage at 90 percent, there will be a single calculation. If the dairy operation purchased buy-up coverage at less than 90 percent and the catastrophic level also triggers a payment, then there will be two calculations to determine the payment—first the calculation for the buy-up coverage percentage and then the calculation for the catastrophic level percentage, which is the balance of the established production history up to 90 percent; the result of these two calculations will be added together to determine the payment amount. Each calculation multiplies the payment rate times the coverage percentage times the production history divided by 6 as follows: (1) Payment rate. The amount by which the coverage level exceeds the average actual dairy production margin for the 2-month period; (2) Coverage percentage. The coverage percentage; and (3) Production history. The production history of the dairy operation, divided by 6. (c) Example of payment for buy-up coverage of less than 90 percent when catastrophic level also triggers a payment. If the dairy operation purchased buy-up level coverage at less than 90 percent of production history, then the dairy operation will receive a payment calculated at the buy-up level, plus the payment at the catastrophic level, if triggered, for the balance of 90 percent of its established production history. For example, if a producer purchased buy-up coverage at the 50 percent level, then that producer will also receive catastrophic level coverage VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:03 Apr 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 for the next 40 percent for total coverage of 90 percent. 8. Revise § 1430.109(a)(2) to read as follows: ■ § 1430.109 Effect of failure to pay administrative fees or premiums. (a) * * * (2) Upon such failure to pay when due after initial approved registration, loses coverage under MPP-Dairy until such administrative fee or premium is paid in full, and once paid, coverage will begin with the next consecutive 2month period. Failure to pay the premium fee when due will reduce coverage to the catastrophic level for the September and October period and November and December period in that coverage year. * * * * * 9. Revise § 1430.111 to read as follows: ■ § 1430.111 Program. Relation to RMA’s LGM-Dairy (a) A producer may participate in either MPP-Dairy through a dairy operation or the LGM-Dairy program operated by RMA, but not both. (b) Producers in dairy operations participating in MPP-Dairy must certify at the time of registration and annually during each coverage election period that they will not have an LGM-Dairy policy in effect during the calendar year the dairy operation is requesting coverage. (c) A participating dairy operation may be required to provide proof, to the satisfaction of FSA, of the cancellation or expiration of any previous LGMDairy policy. 10. Amend § 1430.112 by revising paragraph (b) to read as follows: ■ § 1430.112 Multi-year contract. * * * * * (b) Failure to pay administrative fees and premiums will result in the loss or reduction of coverage, as applicable, and the participating dairy operation remains obligated to pay such administrative fees and premiums as specified in § 1430.109. * * * * * Val Dolcini, Administrator, Farm Service Agency, and Executive Vice President, Commodity Credit Corporation. [FR Doc. 2016–08482 Filed 4–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–05–P PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Food Safety and Inspection Service 9 CFR Part 381 [Docket No. FSIS–2015–0026] RIN 0583–AD60 Classes of Poultry Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is amending the definition and standard of identity for the ‘‘roaster’’ or ‘‘roasting chicken’’ poultry class to better reflect the characteristics of ‘‘roaster’’ chickens in the market today. ‘‘Roasters’’ or ‘‘roasting chickens’’ are described in terms of the age and ready-to-cook (RTC) carcass weight of the bird. Genetic changes and management techniques have continued to reduce the grow-out period and increased the RTC weight for this poultry class. Therefore, FSIS is amending the ‘‘roaster’’ definition to remove the 8-week minimum age criterion and increase the RTC carcass weight from 5 pounds to 5.5 pounds. FSIS is taking this action in response to a petition submitted by the National Chicken Council. DATES: Effective Date: January 1, 2018. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rosalyn Murphy-Jenkins, Director, Labeling and Program Delivery Staff, Office of Policy and Program Development, FSIS, USDA; Telephone (301)504–0879. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Background The Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA) prohibits the distribution of poultry products that are adulterated or misbranded (21 U.S.C. 458). The PPIA also authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to prescribe, among other things, definitions and standards of identity or composition for poultry products whenever the Secretary determines that such action is necessary for the protection of the public (21 U.S.C. 457(b)). Poultry classes were established by USDA to aid in labeling poultry (9 CFR 381.170). The classes were based primarily on the age and sex of the bird. FSIS uses poultry class standards to ensure that poultry products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner. On August 19, 2015, FSIS published a proposed rule to amend the definition and standard of identity for the ‘‘roaster’’ or ‘‘roasting chicken’’ poultry E:\FR\FM\13APR1.SGM 13APR1 jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 71 / Wednesday, April 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations class (hereafter referred to as ‘‘roasters’’) (80 FR 50229). Under the current regulations, a ‘‘roaster’’ is defined as a young chicken (between 8 and 12 weeks of age), of either sex, with a RTC weight of 5 pounds or more, that is tendermeated with soft, pliable, smoothtextured skin and breastbone cartilage that is somewhat less flexible than that of a broiler or fryer (9 CFR 381.170(a)(1)(iii)). FSIS published the final rule that established the current poultry class standards, including the ‘‘roaster’’ class, on November 3, 2011, and the rule went into effect on January 1, 2014. On November 18, 2013, before the January 1, 2014, effective date for the 2011 final rule, the National Chicken Council (NCC) petitioned FSIS to amend the definition and standard of identity for the ‘‘roaster’’ chicken class to remove the 8-week minimum age requirement and to increase the RTC carcass weight to 5.5 pounds (https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/ adf54579-7a18-4ab2-a9b588f1eef65332/Petition-NationalChicken-Council.pdf?MOD=AJPERES). According to the petition, the ‘‘roaster’’ standard established in the 2011 final rule would detract from the orderly and efficient marketing of classes of poultry because companies would be unable to label and market chickens with the RTC weight and other physical attributes of a ‘‘roaster’’ as ‘‘roasters’’ because of the minimum age requirement. The NCC asserted that improvements in breeding and poultry management techniques that have continued since FSIS published the November 2011 final rule have enabled producers to raise chickens with the characteristics of roasters in under 8 weeks. FSIS, in consultation with USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), conducted a preliminary review of the NCC petition and supporting data and tentatively concluded that the petition had merit. Therefore, in the December 27, 2013, edition of the FSIS Constituent Update, FSIS announced that it would continue to allow chickens younger than 8 weeks of age to be labeled and marketed as ‘‘roasters’’ if these birds met all of the other characteristics of a ‘‘roaster’’ (https://www.fsis.usda.gov/ wps/wcm/connect/7f5a78cd-48f5-411bbcf3-6f0035e72ff8/Constituent-Update122713.pdf?MOD=AJPERES& CONVERT_TO=url&CACHEID= 7f5a78cd-48f5-411b-bcf3-6f0035e72ff8). They would have to have a RTC carcass weight of 5 pounds or more; be tendermeated; and have soft, pliable, smoothtextured skin that is somewhat less flexible than that of a broiler or fryer. FSIS also stated that it intended to VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:03 Apr 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 propose to revise the roaster definition or reaffirm the definition established in the November 2011 final rule. In July 2014, FSIS, in consultation with AMS, completed its review of the NCC petition and concluded that the available data supported the requested action (see the August 19, 2015 proposed rule ‘‘Classes of Poultry’’ (80 FR 50228)). On July 23, 2014, FSIS sent a letter to the NCC informing the organization that the Agency had decided to grant the petition (https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/ d6fba22b-271d-4204-adc656ab45d7b587/NCC-FSIS-Response72314.pdf?MOD=AJPERES). On August 19, 2015, FSIS published a proposed rule to amend the poultry class standards to define a ‘‘roaster’’ or ‘‘roasting chicken’’ as a young chicken (less than 12 weeks of age) of either sex, with a RTC carcass weight of 5.5 pounds or more, that is tender-meated with soft, pliable smooth-textured skin and breastbone cartilage that may be somewhat less flexible than that of a ‘‘broiler’’ or ‘‘fryer.’’ After reviewing the comments on the proposed rule, FSIS is finalizing it without changes. Summary of Comments and Responses FSIS received four comments on the proposed rule, one from an organization representing the chicken industry and three from private citizens. An organization representing the chicken industry strongly supported the proposed amendment because of the positive impacts on the poultry industry. According to the comment, such impacts include: (1) Aiding in the orderly and efficient marketing of classes of poultry in the United States, (2) eliminating the burden of periodically amending the regulation to reflect industry advancements in breeding by removing the minimum age requirement, and (3) reducing the cost for producers to efficiently raise birds. The organization also commented that efficient raising of birds would keep the cost of the final product lower for consumers because companies would not need to continue to pay for birds’ feed until the birds reach eight weeks. The following is a summary of other relevant issues raised in the comments opposed to the rule and FSIS’s responses. Comment: An individual opposed amending the ‘‘roaster’’ definition because the commenter believed that the change poses a health risk to the public. According to the comment, increasing the RTC weight from 5 pounds to 5.5 pounds will change the time that a ‘‘roasting chicken’’ will have to cook. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21707 Response: FSIS disagrees that amending the ‘‘roaster’’ definition poses a health risk to the public. FSIS recommends cooking whole chicken to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F (73.9 °C) as measured with a food thermometer regardless of the weight of the bird. FSIS and standard cooking guidance recommend that those preparing whole chickens check the internal temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast. For planning purposes, some consumers approximate cooking times based on the weight of the carcass. FSIS requires all poultry labels to display an accurate net weight. Comment: Two comments from individuals stated that FSIS should maintain the 8–12 week age criteria for ‘‘roasting chickens.’’ According to the comments, ‘‘roasters’’ have a superior texture and flavor spectrum because of their age and not their size. One commenter asserted that the flavor of the meat improves with more bone versus cartilage in the finished meal. Another commenter said that the older the birds, the more firm and less fatty the meat. That commenter stated that consumers pay a premium for an older bird not a larger bird. Response: The new standard for ‘‘roasting chicken’’ eliminates the minimum age requirement of 8 weeks. Chickens up to 12 weeks may be labeled as ‘‘roasters.’’ Additionally, the ‘‘roaster’’ standard includes physical attributes, including those the commenters identified: the birds must be tender-meated with soft, pliable, smooth-textured skin and have breastbone cartilage that may be somewhat less flexible than that of a ‘‘broiler’’ or ‘‘fryer.’’ Chickens that do not meet these physical attributes do not meet the standard for ‘‘roaster.’’ Comment: One individual stated that to assure consumers that they are purchasing an appropriately aged bird, product labels should indicate the age of the bird at the time of slaughter. According to the commenter, through this labeling information, consumers can decide whether they are purchasing a roaster or a broiler. Another individual said that companies should not be required to label birds as ‘‘broilers’’ or ‘‘roasters’’ if the only difference between the two is size. According to the comment, the labeling should simply provide the RTC carcass weight. Response: Requiring that poultry carcasses be labeled with the age at time of slaughter would place an undue burden on industry without providing information to consumers that will inform their purchasing decisions. Both ‘‘roasters’’ and ‘‘broilers’’ may, E:\FR\FM\13APR1.SGM 13APR1 21708 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 71 / Wednesday, April 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations alternatively, be labeled as ‘‘whole young chickens’’ if the manufacturer prefers not to label them as ‘‘roasters’’ or ‘‘broilers’’ (9 CFR 381.117). Also, FSIS agrees with the petitioners that as long as chickens 12 weeks or younger have the appropriate characteristics, they may be labeled as ‘‘roasters.’’ Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting flexibility. This final rule has been designated a ‘‘nonsignificant’’ regulatory action under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, the rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order (E.O.) 12866. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES Economic Impact Analysis FSIS affirms the preliminary regulatory impact analysis 1 and is finalizing the proposed rule and regulatory impact analysis without change. This final rule will not have significant costs because FSIS allows chickens younger than 8 weeks with the physical attributes of ‘‘roasters’’ to be labeled as ‘‘roasters.’’ 2 The final rule will codify present practices and will not impose new requirements. Amending the poultry class definition of ‘‘roaster’’ will benefit consumers by ensuring that chickens labeled as ‘‘roasters’’ continue to meet consumer expectations, and that the labels are truthful and not misleading. Consequently, consumers will be able to make informed purchase decisions. Regulatory Flexibility Act Assessment The FSIS Administrator has determined that this final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities as defined by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). This final rule will not result in additional costs to the industry because FSIS allows chickens 1 https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/ 3fc66d17-1b67-4e09-a4a2-5eabbc55940a/20150026.htm?MOD=AJPERES. 2 See Constituent Update: https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/ meetings/newsletters/constituent-updates/archive/ 2013/ConstUpdate122713. VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:03 Apr 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 younger than 8 weeks with the physical attributes of ‘‘roasters’’ to be labeled as ‘‘roasters.’’ Paperwork Reduction Act FSIS has reviewed this rule under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520) and has determined that the information collection related to labeling has been approved by OMB under OMB control number 0583–0092. FSIS does not anticipate many label changes as a result of the change to the ‘‘roaster’’ definition because establishments that produce chickens that comply with the ‘‘roaster’’ poultry class standard are already labeling these birds as ‘‘roasters.’’ Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform This final rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform. Under this rule: (1) All State and local laws and regulations that are inconsistent with this rule will be preempted; (2) no retroactive effect will be given to this rule; and (3) no administrative proceedings will be required before parties may file suit in court challenging this rule. Executive Order 13175 This rule has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements of Executive Order 13175, ‘‘Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments.’’ E.O. 13175 requires Federal agencies to consult and coordinate with tribes on a governmentto-government basis on policies that have tribal implications, including regulations, legislative comments or proposed legislation, and other policy statements or actions that have substantial direct effects on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. FSIS has assessed the impact of this rule on Indian tribes and determined that this rule does not, to our knowledge, have tribal implications that require tribal consultation under E.O. 13175. If a Tribe requests consultation, FSIS will work with the Office of Tribal Relations to ensure meaningful consultation is provided where changes, additions and modifications identified herein are not expressly mandated by Congress. USDA Non-Discrimination Statement No agency, officer, or employee of the USDA shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 disability, age, marital status, family/ parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, or political beliefs, exclude from participation in, deny the benefits of, or subject to discrimination any person in the United States under any program or activity conducted by the USDA. How To File a Complaint of Discrimination To file a complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, which may be accessed online at https:// www.ocio.usda.gov/sites/default/files/ docs/2012/Complain_combined_6_8_ 12.pdf, or write a letter signed by you or your authorized representative. Send your completed complaint form or letter to USDA by mail, fax, or email: Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250–9410. Fax: (202) 690–7442. Email: program.intake@usda.gov. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.), should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and TDD). Additional Public Notification Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy development is important. Consequently, FSIS will announce this Federal Register publication on-line through the FSIS Web page located at: https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/federal-register. FSIS also will make copies of this publication available through the FSIS Constituent Update, which is used to provide information regarding FSIS policies, procedures, regulations, Federal Register notices, FSIS public meetings, and other types of information that could affect or would be of interest to our constituents and stakeholders. The Update is available on the FSIS Web page. Through the Web page, FSIS is able to provide information to a much broader, more diverse audience. In addition, FSIS offers an email subscription service which provides automatic and customized access to selected food safety news and information. This service is available at: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/subscribe. Options range from recalls to export information, regulations, directives, and notices. Customers can add or delete subscriptions themselves, and have the option to password protect their accounts. E:\FR\FM\13APR1.SGM 13APR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 71 / Wednesday, April 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 9 CFR Part 381 Food grades and standards, Poultry and poultry products. For the reasons stated in the preamble, FSIS amends 9 CFR part 381, as follows: PART 381—POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS 1. The authority citation for part 381 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 7 U.S.C. 138f, 450; 21 U.S.C. 451–470; 7 CFR 2.7, 2.18, 2.53. 2. Amend § 381.170 by revising paragraph (a)(1)(iii) to read as follows: ■ § 381.170 Standards for kinds and classes, and for cuts of raw poultry. (a) * * * (1) * * * (iii) Roaster or roasting chicken. A ‘‘roaster’’ or ‘‘roasting chicken’’ is a young chicken (less than 12 weeks of age), of either sex, with a ready-to-cook carcass weight of 5.5 pounds or more, that is tender-meated with soft, pliable, smooth-textured skin and breastbone cartilage that is somewhat less flexible than that of a broiler or fryer. * * * * * Done at Washington, DC, on: April 8, 2016. Alfred V. Almanza, Acting Administrator. [FR Doc. 2016–08488 Filed 4–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–DM–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–4811; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–104–AD; Amendment 39–18481; AD 2016–08–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL– 600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. This AD was prompted by the discovery of a number of incorrectly jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:03 Apr 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 calibrated angle of attack (AOA) transducers installed in the stall protection system. This AD requires replacement of affected AOA transducers. We are issuing this AD to detect and replace incorrectly calibrated AOA transducers; incorrect calibration of the transducers could result in late activation of the stick pusher. DATES: This AD is effective May 18, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 18, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact ˆ Bombardier, Inc., 400 Cote-Vertu Road ´ West, Dorval, Quebec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–5000; fax 514–855– 7401; email thd.crj@ aero.bombardier.com; Internet https:// www.bombardier.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 4811. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 4811; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone 800–647– 5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cesar Gomez, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE–171, FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7318; fax 516–794–5531. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Bombardier, Inc. Model PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21709 CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600– 2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL– 600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on November 12, 2015 (80 FR 69896) (‘‘the NPRM’’). Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the aviation authority Canada, has issued Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF–2015–18, dated July 16, 2015 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL– 600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL– 600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. The MCAI states: It was discovered that a number of AOA transducers installed on Bombardier CL– 600–2C10, CL–600–2D15, CL–600–2D24, and CL–600–2E25 aeroplanes were incorrectly calibrated due to a quality control problem at both the production and repair facilities. Incorrect calibration of the AOA transducer could result in a late activation of the stick pusher. This [Canadian] AD mandates the replacement of the incorrectly calibrated AOA transducer. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 4811. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We considered the one comment received. The commenter supported the NPRM. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Bombardier Service Bulletin 670BA–27–069, dated March 30, 2015. This service information E:\FR\FM\13APR1.SGM 13APR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 71 (Wednesday, April 13, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 21706-21709]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-08488]

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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Food Safety and Inspection Service

9 CFR Part 381

[Docket No. FSIS-2015-0026]
RIN 0583-AD60

Classes of Poultry

AGENCY: Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is amending the
definition and standard of identity for the ``roaster'' or ``roasting
chicken'' poultry class to better reflect the characteristics of
``roaster'' chickens in the market today. ``Roasters'' or ``roasting
chickens'' are described in terms of the age and ready-to-cook (RTC)
carcass weight of the bird. Genetic changes and management techniques
have continued to reduce the grow-out period and increased the RTC
weight for this poultry class. Therefore, FSIS is amending the
``roaster'' definition to remove the 8-week minimum age criterion and
increase the RTC carcass weight from 5 pounds to 5.5 pounds. FSIS is
taking this action in response to a petition submitted by the National
Chicken Council.

DATES: Effective Date: January 1, 2018.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rosalyn Murphy-Jenkins, Director,
Labeling and Program Delivery Staff, Office of Policy and Program
Development, FSIS, USDA; Telephone (301)504-0879.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

The Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA) prohibits the
distribution of poultry products that are adulterated or misbranded (21
U.S.C. 458). The PPIA also authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to
prescribe, among other things, definitions and standards of identity or
composition for poultry products whenever the Secretary determines that
such action is necessary for the protection of the public (21 U.S.C.
457(b)). Poultry classes were established by USDA to aid in labeling
poultry (9 CFR 381.170). The classes were based primarily on the age
and sex of the bird. FSIS uses poultry class standards to ensure that
poultry products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner.
On August 19, 2015, FSIS published a proposed rule to amend the
definition and standard of identity for the ``roaster'' or ``roasting
chicken'' poultry

[[Page 21707]]

class (hereafter referred to as ``roasters'') (80 FR 50229). Under the
current regulations, a ``roaster'' is defined as a young chicken
(between 8 and 12 weeks of age), of either sex, with a RTC weight of 5
pounds or more, that is tender-meated with soft, pliable, smooth-
textured skin and breastbone cartilage that is somewhat less flexible
than that of a broiler or fryer (9 CFR 381.170(a)(1)(iii)). FSIS
published the final rule that established the current poultry class
standards, including the ``roaster'' class, on November 3, 2011, and
the rule went into effect on January 1, 2014.
On November 18, 2013, before the January 1, 2014, effective date
for the 2011 final rule, the National Chicken Council (NCC) petitioned
FSIS to amend the definition and standard of identity for the
``roaster'' chicken class to remove the 8-week minimum age requirement
and to increase the RTC carcass weight to 5.5 pounds (https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/adf54579-7a18-4ab2-a9b5-88f1eef65332/Petition-National-Chicken-Council.pdf?MOD=AJPERES). According to the
petition, the ``roaster'' standard established in the 2011 final rule
would detract from the orderly and efficient marketing of classes of
poultry because companies would be unable to label and market chickens
with the RTC weight and other physical attributes of a ``roaster'' as
``roasters'' because of the minimum age requirement. The NCC asserted
that improvements in breeding and poultry management techniques that
have continued since FSIS published the November 2011 final rule have
enabled producers to raise chickens with the characteristics of
roasters in under 8 weeks.
FSIS, in consultation with USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service
(AMS), conducted a preliminary review of the NCC petition and
supporting data and tentatively concluded that the petition had merit.
Therefore, in the December 27, 2013, edition of the FSIS Constituent
Update, FSIS announced that it would continue to allow chickens younger
than 8 weeks of age to be labeled and marketed as ``roasters'' if these
birds met all of the other characteristics of a ``roaster'' (https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/7f5a78cd-48f5-411b-bcf3-6f0035e72ff8/Constituent-Update-122713.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CONVERT_TO=url&CACHEID=7f5a78cd-48f5-411b-bcf3-6f0035e72ff8). They would have to have a RTC carcass weight of 5 pounds
or more; be tender-meated; and have soft, pliable, smooth-textured skin
that is somewhat less flexible than that of a broiler or fryer. FSIS
also stated that it intended to propose to revise the roaster
definition or reaffirm the definition established in the November 2011
final rule.
In July 2014, FSIS, in consultation with AMS, completed its review
of the NCC petition and concluded that the available data supported the
requested action (see the August 19, 2015 proposed rule ``Classes of
Poultry'' (80 FR 50228)). On July 23, 2014, FSIS sent a letter to the
NCC informing the organization that the Agency had decided to grant the
petition (https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/d6fba22b-271d-4204-adc6-56ab45d7b587/NCC-FSIS-Response-72314.pdf?MOD=AJPERES). On August
19, 2015, FSIS published a proposed rule to amend the poultry class
standards to define a ``roaster'' or ``roasting chicken'' as a young
chicken (less than 12 weeks of age) of either sex, with a RTC carcass
weight of 5.5 pounds or more, that is tender-meated with soft, pliable
smooth-textured skin and breastbone cartilage that may be somewhat less
flexible than that of a ``broiler'' or ``fryer.'' After reviewing the
comments on the proposed rule, FSIS is finalizing it without changes.

Summary of Comments and Responses

FSIS received four comments on the proposed rule, one from an
organization representing the chicken industry and three from private
citizens.
An organization representing the chicken industry strongly
supported the proposed amendment because of the positive impacts on the
poultry industry. According to the comment, such impacts include: (1)
Aiding in the orderly and efficient marketing of classes of poultry in
the United States, (2) eliminating the burden of periodically amending
the regulation to reflect industry advancements in breeding by removing
the minimum age requirement, and (3) reducing the cost for producers to
efficiently raise birds. The organization also commented that efficient
raising of birds would keep the cost of the final product lower for
consumers because companies would not need to continue to pay for
birds' feed until the birds reach eight weeks.
The following is a summary of other relevant issues raised in the
comments opposed to the rule and FSIS's responses.
Comment: An individual opposed amending the ``roaster'' definition
because the commenter believed that the change poses a health risk to
the public. According to the comment, increasing the RTC weight from 5
pounds to 5.5 pounds will change the time that a ``roasting chicken''
will have to cook.
Response: FSIS disagrees that amending the ``roaster'' definition
poses a health risk to the public. FSIS recommends cooking whole
chicken to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 [deg]F (73.9
[deg]C) as measured with a food thermometer regardless of the weight of
the bird. FSIS and standard cooking guidance recommend that those
preparing whole chickens check the internal temperature in the
innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the
breast. For planning purposes, some consumers approximate cooking times
based on the weight of the carcass. FSIS requires all poultry labels to
display an accurate net weight.
Comment: Two comments from individuals stated that FSIS should
maintain the 8-12 week age criteria for ``roasting chickens.''
According to the comments, ``roasters'' have a superior texture and
flavor spectrum because of their age and not their size. One commenter
asserted that the flavor of the meat improves with more bone versus
cartilage in the finished meal. Another commenter said that the older
the birds, the more firm and less fatty the meat. That commenter stated
that consumers pay a premium for an older bird not a larger bird.
Response: The new standard for ``roasting chicken'' eliminates the
minimum age requirement of 8 weeks. Chickens up to 12 weeks may be
labeled as ``roasters.'' Additionally, the ``roaster'' standard
includes physical attributes, including those the commenters
identified: the birds must be tender-meated with soft, pliable, smooth-
textured skin and have breastbone cartilage that may be somewhat less
flexible than that of a ``broiler'' or ``fryer.'' Chickens that do not
meet these physical attributes do not meet the standard for
``roaster.''
Comment: One individual stated that to assure consumers that they
are purchasing an appropriately aged bird, product labels should
indicate the age of the bird at the time of slaughter. According to the
commenter, through this labeling information, consumers can decide
whether they are purchasing a roaster or a broiler. Another individual
said that companies should not be required to label birds as
``broilers'' or ``roasters'' if the only difference between the two is
size. According to the comment, the labeling should simply provide the
RTC carcass weight.
Response: Requiring that poultry carcasses be labeled with the age
at time of slaughter would place an undue burden on industry without
providing information to consumers that will inform their purchasing
decisions. Both ``roasters'' and ``broilers'' may,

[[Page 21708]]

alternatively, be labeled as ``whole young chickens'' if the
manufacturer prefers not to label them as ``roasters'' or ``broilers''
(9 CFR 381.117). Also, FSIS agrees with the petitioners that as long as
chickens 12 weeks or younger have the appropriate characteristics, they
may be labeled as ``roasters.''

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public
health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). Executive
Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and
benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting
flexibility. This final rule has been designated a ``non-significant''
regulatory action under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866.
Accordingly, the rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management
and Budget under Executive Order (E.O.) 12866.

Economic Impact Analysis

FSIS affirms the preliminary regulatory impact analysis \1\ and is
finalizing the proposed rule and regulatory impact analysis without
change. This final rule will not have significant costs because FSIS
allows chickens younger than 8 weeks with the physical attributes of
``roasters'' to be labeled as ``roasters.'' \2\ The final rule will
codify present practices and will not impose new requirements.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/3fc66d17-1b67-4e09-a4a2-5eabbc55940a/2015-0026.htm?MOD=AJPERES.
\2\ See Constituent Update: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/meetings/newsletters/constituent-updates/archive/2013/ConstUpdate122713.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amending the poultry class definition of ``roaster'' will benefit
consumers by ensuring that chickens labeled as ``roasters'' continue to
meet consumer expectations, and that the labels are truthful and not
misleading. Consequently, consumers will be able to make informed
purchase decisions.

Regulatory Flexibility Act Assessment

The FSIS Administrator has determined that this final rule will not
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small
entities as defined by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq.). This final rule will not result in additional costs to the
industry because FSIS allows chickens younger than 8 weeks with the
physical attributes of ``roasters'' to be labeled as ``roasters.''

Paperwork Reduction Act

FSIS has reviewed this rule under the Paperwork Reduction Act of
1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520) and has determined that the information
collection related to labeling has been approved by OMB under OMB
control number 0583-0092.
FSIS does not anticipate many label changes as a result of the
change to the ``roaster'' definition because establishments that
produce chickens that comply with the ``roaster'' poultry class
standard are already labeling these birds as ``roasters.''

Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform

This final rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988,
Civil Justice Reform. Under this rule: (1) All State and local laws and
regulations that are inconsistent with this rule will be preempted; (2)
no retroactive effect will be given to this rule; and (3) no
administrative proceedings will be required before parties may file
suit in court challenging this rule.

Executive Order 13175

This rule has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements of
Executive Order 13175, ``Consultation and Coordination with Indian
Tribal Governments.'' E.O. 13175 requires Federal agencies to consult
and coordinate with tribes on a government-to-government basis on
policies that have tribal implications, including regulations,
legislative comments or proposed legislation, and other policy
statements or actions that have substantial direct effects on one or
more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government
and Indian tribes or on the distribution of power and responsibilities
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.
FSIS has assessed the impact of this rule on Indian tribes and
determined that this rule does not, to our knowledge, have tribal
implications that require tribal consultation under E.O. 13175. If a
Tribe requests consultation, FSIS will work with the Office of Tribal
Relations to ensure meaningful consultation is provided where changes,
additions and modifications identified herein are not expressly
mandated by Congress.

USDA Non-Discrimination Statement

No agency, officer, or employee of the USDA shall, on the grounds
of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual
orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status,
income derived from a public assistance program, or political beliefs,
exclude from participation in, deny the benefits of, or subject to
discrimination any person in the United States under any program or
activity conducted by the USDA.

How To File a Complaint of Discrimination

To file a complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program
Discrimination Complaint Form, which may be accessed online at https://www.ocio.usda.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2012/Complain_combined_6_8_12.pdf, or write a letter signed by you or your
authorized representative.
Send your completed complaint form or letter to USDA by mail, fax,
or email:
Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of
Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-9410.
Fax: (202) 690-7442.
Email: program.intake@usda.gov.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for
communication (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.), should contact
USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

Additional Public Notification

Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy
development is important. Consequently, FSIS will announce this Federal
Register publication on-line through the FSIS Web page located at:
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/federal-register.
FSIS also will make copies of this publication available through
the FSIS Constituent Update, which is used to provide information
regarding FSIS policies, procedures, regulations, Federal Register
notices, FSIS public meetings, and other types of information that
could affect or would be of interest to our constituents and
stakeholders. The Update is available on the FSIS Web page. Through the
Web page, FSIS is able to provide information to a much broader, more
diverse audience. In addition, FSIS offers an email subscription
service which provides automatic and customized access to selected food
safety news and information. This service is available at: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/subscribe. Options range from recalls to export
information, regulations, directives, and notices. Customers can add or
delete subscriptions themselves, and have the option to password
protect their accounts.

[[Page 21709]]

List of Subjects in 9 CFR Part 381

Food grades and standards, Poultry and poultry products.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, FSIS amends 9 CFR part 381,
as follows:

PART 381--POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 381 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 7 U.S.C. 138f, 450; 21 U.S.C. 451-470; 7 CFR 2.7,
2.18, 2.53.

0
2. Amend Sec. 381.170 by revising paragraph (a)(1)(iii) to read as
follows:

Sec. 381.170 Standards for kinds and classes, and for cuts of raw
poultry.

(a) * * *
(1) * * *
(iii) Roaster or roasting chicken. A ``roaster'' or ``roasting
chicken'' is a young chicken (less than 12 weeks of age), of either
sex, with a ready-to-cook carcass weight of 5.5 pounds or more, that is
tender-meated with soft, pliable, smooth-textured skin and breastbone
cartilage that is somewhat less flexible than that of a broiler or
fryer.
* * * * *

Done at Washington, DC, on: April 8, 2016.
Alfred V. Almanza,
Acting Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2016-08488 Filed 4-12-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P

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