The next time you reach for a package of ground beef, take a few extra seconds to read the label. A USDA inspection stamp does not automatically mean the beef came from cattle raised in America. With the U.S. allowing additional imported lean beef trimmings to enter the market, shoppers may see more products made with beef from different countries. The policy is designed to increase supply and help ease high prices as the American cattle herd remains at historically low levels. Lean trimmings can be blended with fattier beef to create familiar combinations such as 80/20 or 90/10, making them common in ground beef products.

If you specifically want beef sourced entirely from animals raised in the United States, look for wording such as “Product of USA,” “Made in the USA,” or other labels identifying American origin. Country-of-origin information may also appear in smaller print elsewhere on the package. One important detail is that a U.S. processing location does not necessarily mean the cattle came from the United States. Imported beef can be processed, cut, or packaged at an American facility while still originating elsewhere. And terms such as “USDA Prime,” “Choice,” and “Select” describe quality grades—not where the beef came from. The USDA inspection mark relates to safety and wholesomeness, while grading evaluates quality. In other words, the label can tell you a lot, but knowing which part to read is the key.