President Trump signed a proclamation last month allowing duty-free importation of about 660 million pounds of inexpensive beef trimmings from 16 countries, including Brazil and Argentina. These lean beef trimmings, frozen and potentially stored overseas for years, will be processed into ground beef for fast food chains and supermarkets. Unlike most consumer goods, beef is not required to carry country-of-origin labeling, leaving American consumers unaware of the meat's source.

Critics point to questionable food-safety practices in exporting countries. China recently rejected Uruguayan beef over drug residue and Argentine beef due to banned antibiotics. Brazil's 2017 scandal involved contaminated meat treated with chemicals being sold to hospitals and exported globally. JBS, the world's largest beef producer, admitted to bribing inspectors.

American cattle leaders argue the move hurts domestic ranchers while benefiting meatpacking companies and fast food chains. The proclamation follows a November 2023 White House meeting between President Trump and Joesley Batista, head of JBS, secured through his friendship with Melania Trump and a $5 million donation to Trump's second inauguration. Shortly after, JBS received SEC approval to list on the New York Stock Exchange after nearly a decade of seeking the privilege.