What do producers of meat produced under insanitary conditions face by way of criminal sanctions?

Under the Federal Meat Inspection Act – here are the criminal provisions:

The Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) is primarily codified in Title 21 of the United States Code (USC), sections 601-695. Provisions concerning criminal penalties under the FMIA are primarily found in Section 678 of Title 21. 

Here’s a breakdown of the relevant sections regarding criminal penalties:

Key Provisions Relating to Criminal Penalties

  1. 21 U.S.C. § 601-633: These sections detail the definitions, requirements, and standards for the inspection of meat and meat products but do not explicitly cover penalties.
  1. 21 U.S.C. § 674: Administrative and enforcement provisions, including the authority to regulate and inspect meat products.
  1. 21 U.S.C. § 678 (Criminal Penalties): This section outlines the criminal penalties for violations of the FMIA. It specifies that any person who:
  • Violates any provision of the act, or any of the regulations made under the act.
  • Falsifies documentation or engages in fraudulent behavior regarding meat inspection.
  • Can face misdemeanor charges with penalties including a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
  • Furthermore, if a person knowingly or willfully violates the act in a manner that leads to serious consequences, this can elevate to felony charges, which may result in fines up to $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations, and imprisonment for up to three years.
  1. 21 U.S.C. § 67: Discusses the seizure of products that violate the act and is often employed for enforcement actions against violators.