USDA Releases Proposed GMO Labeling Rules
Congress enacted The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard Law on July 29, 2016; and more recently the USDA released a proposed rule regarding the labeling of bioengineered foods and how this should be communicated to the public. The standard is currently open for public comment. Per Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue “We are looking for public input on a number of these key decisions before a final rule is issued later this year.” The 60-day open comment period will be closing on July 3rd. The proposed rule can be viewed and comments can be submitted here. Some of the important points that the USDA is looking for public comment on are:
- Definition of bioengineered: will new genetic techniques like genetic editing (CRISPR, TALEN, etc.), RNAi, and others require labeling?
- Will highly refined ingredients that originate from bioengineered foods, but do not have nucleic products that can be detected via common test methods, require labeling?
- At what threshold are products considered bioengineered? 0.9%, 5%, and 10% have been proposed.
- Will bioengineered levels be determined by ingredient or by product weight?
- How will the bioengineered label be communicated to consumers: text claims, digital codes (QR), symbols, or text message based inquiries?
More information from the USDA on the National Bioengineering Food Disclosure Law is available via a pre-recorded webinar found here.
As you contemplate the impact that the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Law may have on your organizations, use EnviroLogix as an informed industry resource. We’re here to supply the diagnostic solutions and implementation guidance to insure your organization is well positioned to comply with this new law.
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