Vilsack: GMO Labeling Rules Making Progress

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Establishing rules implementing a nationwide, mandatory system for labeling foods made with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is progressing, but it is unclear how much USDA can accomplish before the next administration takes office, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said today. Most observers of the topic previously thought it would be the new incoming administration and its officials that would be the major impetus behind final rulemaking on implementing recent GMO food labeling legislation.

“It’s a little early to say how much we’ll get done,” Vilsack said following a keynote speech on veterans in agriculture at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Vilsack wants to “establish a very strong foundation and framework” in the rulemaking process so that the next administration will not have to deal with the more intricate and difficult decisions in implementing the law, signed by President Barack Obama July 29.

USDA issued guidance related to the GMO law Aug. 19 which eased rules on labeling meat and eggs made using animal feed and ingredients that have not been genetically modified.

Vilsack revealed that USDA is also examining how to conduct a study — mandated by the labeling law — on the effectiveness of using internet links and QR codes scanned by a consumer’s smartphone to convey GMO information, perhaps, adding QR scanners in grocery stores for people who do not have smartphones.

Budget issue. If scanners are provided in grocery stores, Vilsack said that would be a budget issue.

Comments: Food industry lobbyists and activists are of course watching this issue carefully and trying to get their ideas across to make sure the final rule is to their liking.

NOTE: This column is copyrighted material; therefore reproduction or retransmission is prohibited under U.S. copyright laws.