Legal Definitions - Agricultural Marketing Service

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Its primary role is to support the efficient and fair marketing of agricultural products across the nation. AMS achieves this by collecting and sharing vital market data, establishing and upholding quality standards for various farm goods, conducting product testing, and providing financial assistance through grants to states and agricultural producers.

• Example 1: Quality Standards and Consumer Confidence

  When a consumer purchases a package of beef at the supermarket labeled "USDA Prime," they are relying on a quality standard established and enforced by the Agricultural Marketing Service. AMS sets the criteria for different grades of meat, such as Prime, Choice, and Select, based on factors like marbling and maturity. The agency then provides grading services to meat packers, ensuring that the product meets the specified standards. This system allows consumers to make informed choices about the quality of the meat they buy and helps producers market their products effectively based on recognized benchmarks.

• Example 2: Market Information for Farmers

  A dairy farmer in Wisconsin needs to understand current market trends to decide whether to expand their herd or adjust their milk production. They regularly consult reports published by the Agricultural Marketing Service that provide up-to-date information on milk prices, dairy product inventories, and demand forecasts in various regions. This comprehensive market intelligence, compiled and disseminated by AMS, empowers the farmer to make strategic business decisions, helping them navigate the complexities of the agricultural marketplace and secure fair prices for their products.

• Example 3: Supporting Local Food Systems through Grants

  A state agricultural department wants to help small-scale fruit and vegetable growers connect directly with local schools and hospitals, but they lack the resources to develop the necessary infrastructure and marketing programs. They apply for and receive a grant from the Agricultural Marketing Service. This AMS grant funding enables the state to create initiatives that support local food procurement, assist farmers with food safety certifications, and build stronger regional food supply chains, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers by fostering more resilient and accessible local food systems.