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To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define the term natural cheese.

3/12/2025, 8:06 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1394

Bill 119 HR 1394, also known as the "Natural Cheese Definition Act," aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by providing a clear definition of the term "natural cheese." The bill seeks to establish specific criteria that must be met in order for a cheese product to be labeled as "natural."

The proposed legislation outlines that natural cheese must be made from milk, or other dairy ingredients, and must undergo the process of coagulation and separation of curd and whey. Additionally, the bill specifies that natural cheese must not contain any artificial or synthetic additives, flavors, colors, or preservatives.

The purpose of this bill is to provide consumers with a clear understanding of what constitutes natural cheese, and to prevent misleading labeling practices that may confuse or deceive consumers. By defining the term "natural cheese," the bill aims to promote transparency and accuracy in the labeling of cheese products in the United States. Overall, Bill 119 HR 1394 seeks to establish a standardized definition of natural cheese in order to protect consumers and ensure that they are able to make informed choices when purchasing cheese products.

Congressional Summary of HR 1394

Codifying Useful Regulatory Definitions Act or the CURD Act

This bill establishes a statutory definition for natural cheese. Under the bill, natural cheese is defined as cheese (ripened or unripened soft, semi-soft, or hard) that is produced from animal milk or certain dairy ingredients and is produced in accordance with established cheese-making standards. The definition excludes pasteurized process cheeses, cheese foods, and cheese spreads.

A food that does not meet this definition is deemed misbranded and may not be sold if its label includes the term natural cheese as a factual descriptor of a category of cheese.

Current Status of Bill HR 1394

Bill HR 1394 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 14, 2025. Bill HR 1394 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 14, 2025.  Bill HR 1394's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. as of February 14, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1394

Total Number of Sponsors
4
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
4
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
8
Democrat Cosponsors
5
Republican Cosponsors
3
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1394

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1394

To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define the term natural cheese.
To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define the term natural cheese.

Comments

Hank Murray profile image

Hank Murray

629

1 year ago

I don't understand why they need to define natural cheese in this bill. Isn't it already clear what natural cheese is? This seems like a waste of time and resources. Why are they focusing on such a specific issue when there are bigger problems to address in our country? What is the real purpose of this bill and how will it actually benefit the American people?

Maisy Cole profile image

Maisy Cole

688

1 year ago

I can't believe this bill about cheese! Why do they need to define natural cheese? This is so confusing and unnecessary. How will this affect me and my cheese consumption in the short term?