Since we had our series on GMOs awhile ago (read parts 1, 2, 3, and 4), I found this bit about GMO labeling legislation interesting.
Back in July, the House of Representatives passed a bill called the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act 2015. This bill would allow for voluntary labeling of non-GMO foods. Foods made from a GMO crop could still be called natural if certain conditions are met. However, labels cannot have any implication that non-GMO foods are safer than GMO foods.
Some GMO foods would be required to be labeled. This would be required if there is a meaningful difference between a GMO and non-GMO version or if it is necessary for public safety or to prevent the product label from being misleading.
Also important, this federal law (if passed by the senate and signed into law by the president) would pre-empt any state laws related to GMO food labeling.
Many consider this a win for big food companies. As evidenced by by previous posts on GMOs, I don’t see anything wrong with most of the aspects of the legislation. My only hesitation would be on allowing the natural label for GMO products.
What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments!
Have any nutrition questions? Need help with meal planning or a special dietary need? Send your questions to me at kimberlykmarsh(at)gmail(dot)com, and I will answer them in upcoming posts!