New directives from the USDA on the voluntary claim “Product of USA” include a significant change from past guidance.

The new guidelines double down on the requirement that producers making a cover claim have documentation on “hand confirming” evidence and that they be prepared to hand it over to the USDA within 24 hours of a demand.

The directives will be enforced by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Some proponents of the new requirements say they will help ensure standardized food safety guidelines.