If you sell beef, the label is how your buyers learn what makes it different. Here's how label claims work for beef processed at our plant, and what you need to bring. The inspection behind the label is USDA-inspected beef processing.
You can make any valid claim
You can put any valid claim on your label. We handle all the label approval. You tell us the claim and bring the supporting documents. We take care of the rest.
Claims customers use
These are the claims customers use on beef processed here:
- Grass fed
- Grass finished
- No hormones administered
- No antibiotics ever
- Pasture raised
- Texas raised / local
Each claim has to be true for your cattle and backed by supporting documents.
Two paths to approval
Beef processed under USDA inspection needs an approved label. Claims take one of two paths.
Claims approved in-plant
Some claims qualify for generic approval, which we handle right here at the plant. There's no added charge for these.
Claims that need USDA LSAS approval
Other claims need a label sketch approved by USDA through its Label Submission and Approval System (LSAS). We prepare and submit it for you. These claims carry a small added charge to cover the process.
Which path a claim takes is set by USDA rules, not by us. When you call, tell us the exact wording you want, and we'll tell you which path it takes.
How long approval takes
USDA LSAS approval of a new claim usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks for simple claims, and longer for complex ones. That can add time past the usual 2 to 3 weeks it takes to process your order, so plan ahead. If you want a new claim on a specific batch, call us well before you drop off so we can get started.
What to bring
Bring supporting documentsfor your claim at drop-off, along with your payment and your cut sheet. Those are the only papers you need at drop-off. You don't need brand papers or a health inspection. The drop-off list is in what to bring at drop-off.
How to get ready for a new claim
- Write down the exact wording you want on the package.
- Call us before drop-off at (817) 404-7405. We'll tell you whether the claim can be approved in-plant or needs USDA LSAS approval.
- Gather your supporting documents.
- Leave time if the claim needs LSAS approval: about 1 to 2 weeks for simple claims, longer for complex ones.
- Bring the documents at drop-off, with your cut sheet and payment.
One tip: don't order printed packaging or marketing with a new claim on it until the claim is approved. Wording can change during approval.
What label approval costs
- Claims approved in-plant: no added charge.
- Claims that need USDA LSAS approval: a small added charge.
- Everything else about processing stays at the flat price: $850 for a whole on one cut sheet, $450 for a half, or $900 for two halves on separate cut sheets, with patties and chili meat included.
Your brand on the label
A label claim is different from a private label. A private label puts your ranch name and brand on the package. Private label design and GS1 barcodes are quoted separately for each project. See private label processing and barcodes for ranch beef.
Why it matters that we're USDA inspected
Every animal here is processed under USDA inspection. We don't do any custom-exempt processing. That means you can sell your beef anywhere, including retail and commercial distribution, with your approved claims on the label. See how to sell your own beef in Texas.