SB478 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald O. Dial

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Beef, labeling and notice of presence of lean finely textured beef products, Public Health and Agriculture and Industries, rules, civil penalties

Summary

SB478 would require businesses that sell beef or include beef in menu items to notify customers if lean finely textured beef is present, with rules and penalties to be set by the State Board of Health.

What This Bill Does

Defines lean finely textured beef products as beef trimmings processed to reduce fat. Requires any business offering beef for sale or including beef in a menu item to place a label or provide a notice about the presence of lean finely textured beef, with the sign not smaller than 8.5 by 11 inches and placed near the establishment’s permit in a conspicuous location. The State Board of Health would adopt rules to oversee labeling and inspection and may impose civil penalties for incorrect labeling or notices. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it passes and is approved.

Who It Affects

• Beef sellers (grocery stores, restaurants, and similar food-service businesses) that must label or display notices about lean finely textured beef presence.
• Consumers who purchase beef or eat menu items containing beef, who will be informed about whether lean finely textured beef is present.
• State and local health inspectors and the Alabama State Board of Health, who will enforce labeling rules and penalties.

Key Provisions

• Definition of lean finely textured beef products as beef trimmings processed to reduce fat content.
• Mandate to notify consumers by labeling or notice not smaller than 8.5 x 11 inches, placed conspicuously near the relevant permit.
• State Board of Health must adopt rules for inspection and labeling, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and Governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health