S. 1230: Safeguarding American Food and Export Trade Yields Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Safeguarding American Food and Export Trade Yields Act of 2025 (also known as the SAFETY Act of 2025), aims to protect and preserve the use of common names for agricultural products and food items in foreign markets. Below is a breakdown of the key provisions of the bill:

Definitions of Common Names

The bill amends the existing Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to establish a clearer definition of what constitutes a "common name." A common name is defined as a name that:

• Is ordinarily or customarily used for an agricultural commodity or food product.
• Is typically seen on the packaging and label of the product.
• For wine, refers to common grape varietal names or traditional terms typically used in wine labeling.
• Does not include official designations of origin for wine.

Examples of common names mentioned in the bill include terms like "American," "Asiago," "Basmati," and various types of cheese, such as "Feta" and "Parmesan," among others.

Negotiations to Protect Common Names

The bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to work with the United States Trade Representative to defend the rights of U.S. agricultural producers, processors, and exporters to use these common names in foreign markets. This can involve negotiating agreements designed to maintain this usage.

Additionally, the Secretary and the Trade Representative are required to provide semi-annual briefings to relevant Senate and House committees on their efforts to safeguard these common names.

Prohibition of Restrictions on Common Names

The bill also seeks to prevent any foreign regulations from prohibiting or limiting the use of common names for U.S. agricultural products. This ensures that U.S. producers can market their goods using familiar terminology that is widely recognized by consumers, enhancing marketability and trade potential.

Considerations for Determining Common Names

When identifying what qualifies as a common name, the Secretary of Agriculture may consider:

• Reliable sources of information such as dictionaries, professional journals, and market information websites.
• Standards set by international bodies such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
• The customary use of the name in both domestic and international markets.

Relevant Companies

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