Going forward, if the fat portion in pork samgyeopsal exceeds a certain ratio, it cannot be sold under the name samgyeopsal. The government drew up measures after consumers repeatedly complained that restaurants in popular tourist spots sold chunks of fat as samgyeopsal at high prices. At the same time, it will expand online auctions for cattle and pigs to lower distribution expense. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on the 13th announced a plan to improve the distribution structure of livestock products that includes these measures.
The ministry will adjust the fat ratio standard for samgyeopsal (grade 1+) from the current 22%–42% to 25%–40%. If the fat is appropriate, it can be sold as "front samgyeopsal," and if it is low-fat, as "back samgyeopsal." In contrast, if it is over-fat, it cannot use the samgyeopsal name and must be sold as "don chadol." The goal is to resolve the problem of products with fat portions above the standard being distributed at the same price as products that meet the standard.
The distribution structure for premium Korean beef, known as hanwoo, will also be improved. The share of premium Korean beef, known as hanwoo, processed directly at NongHyup wholesale markets will be expanded to more than 40% by 2030, and distribution functions dispersed across online sales and military procurement will be integrated to reduce distribution costs by up to 10%. Major sales outlets such as NongHyup Hanaro Mart will present recommended retail prices that reflect changes in wholesale prices, strengthening price linkage so that when hanwoo wholesale prices fall, retail prices are adjusted as well.
The breeding method for premium Korean beef, known as hanwoo, will also move away from a high-cost, long-term feeding structure. The plan is to increase the share of premium Korean beef, known as hanwoo, shipped within 28 months, compared with the average of 32 months, to lower production costs such as feed by up to 10%.
The labeling method for eggs will also change. Grades 1+, 1, and 2 will be printed directly on eggshells. Weight labeling will be changed from the current "king, extra, large, medium, small" to 2XL, XL, L, M, S to make it easier to understand.
An official at the ministry said the goal is to reduce inefficiencies in distribution and lower production costs to provide reasonable prices for consumers and stable income for farms, adding that the plan will be pushed ahead quickly so people can feel the results.