Lawmaker Introduces Bill on GMO Labeling
U.S. Rep. Mike Pompeo (R-KS) introduced legislation in March to guard against a state-by-state food labeling system on genetically modified ingredients.Residents in nearly 30 states are asking their state leaders to require warning labels on foods that contain these ingredients derived from biotechnology. In response to this movement, Pompeo introduced The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015. In a news release announcing the bill, he said a state-by-state labeling system would impede interstate commerce, discourage innovation among farmers, and mislead consumers about the safety of the food supply.
Dozens of independent research groups have conducted more than 100 studies on genetically modified ingredients since the late 1980s. These studies consistently confirm that such ingredients are safe, Pompeo said.
The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015, which was also introduced by Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC) calls on lawmakers to:
- Create a uniform, national system governing the pre-market review and labeling of genetically engineered foods.
- Require the Food and Drug Administration to review all new plant varieties for genetically engineered food before those foods are introduced to commerce.
- Uphold FDA’s authority to specify special labeling if it believes it is necessary to protect health and safety.
- Create a legal framework, subject to FDA oversight, governing the use of label claims about either the absence, or use, of genetically engineered food or ingredients.
- Direct FDA to develop a federal definition for “natural” claims on product labels.
- Allow those who wish to label their products as “GMO-free” to do so through a USDA-accredited certification process.
To learn more about House Bill 1599 or track its progress, go to FarmEquip.org/HB1599. S