GMO Labeling Bill Is About to Become Law, Are You Ready?

The Senate and House have approved legislation authorizing USDA to establish a National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, in short, GMO Labeling.

This legislation applies to all products for human consumption except those that are served in restaurants and similar establishments.

The products containing meat, chicken or egg as a main ingredient do not need to comply with GMO labeling requirements.

The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service is required to set its regulations within of two years after promulgation of the legislation. USDA will be responsible for determining the origin of the bioengineering and establish the process for classifying the manufacturers such as either “manufacturers of small meals” or ”food manufacturers very small.” The latter would be exempt from GMO labeling.

USDA will need to provide disclosure options, such as a symbol or a QR code or a toll free number to put consumers on notice of GMO declaration.