How to Find the USDA Establishment (EST) Number on Food Packaging
All containers of USDA-inspected meat, poultry and egg products must be labeled with a USDA mark of inspection and establishment (EST number), which is assigned to the plant where the product was produced. Here's where to find the establishment number on a USDA-inspected product.
The establishment number may appear:
- On the package within the USDA mark of inspection, such as pictured below;
- On the exterior of the package container or package labeling (for example, on the lid of a can), if shown in a prominent and legible manner and in a size sufficient to ensure easy visibility and recognition; or
- Off the exterior of the package when its location is identified near the USDA mark of inspection.
Meat Product "EST" Number'
Establishment numbers for meat plants must be identified with the prefix “EST.” — for “Establishment” – prior to the number. The establishment number may appear in the USDA mark of inspection, on the packaging, off the exterior of the container (for example, on a metal clip to close casings) or on aluminum trays placed within containers. If so, a statement of its location must be printed near or connected to the official inspection legend, such as “EST. No. on Metal Clip” or “EST. No. on Pan.” The number may not be applied over any required labeling information.
Poultry Product "EST" Number
Establishment numbers for poultry plants must be identified with the prefix “P-” — for “Poultry” — prior to the number. The establishment number may appear in the USDA mark of inspection, on the packaging, off the exterior of the container (for example, on a metal clip to close casings) or on aluminum trays placed within containers. If so, a statement of its location must be printed near or connected to the USDA mark of inspection, such as “Plant No. on Metal Clip” or “Plant No. on Pan.” The number may not be applied over any required labeling information.
Egg Products "EST" Number
The Establishment number for egg products may appear within the egg products shield or on the principal display panel prefaced with the term “Plant” or the prefix “G.”
Exotic Animals “EST” Number (Voluntary Inspection)
Establishment numbers for exotic animals under voluntary inspection must be identified with the prefix “EST.” — for “Establishment” – prior to the number. The establishment number may appear in the USDA mark of inspection, on the packaging, off the exterior of the container (for example, on a metal clip to close casings) or on aluminum trays placed within containers. If so, a statement of its location must be printed near or connected to the official inspection legend, such as “EST. No. on Metal Clip” or “EST. No. on Pan.” The number may not be applied over any required labeling information.
