Food, Farm Groups Urge Support for FDA Biotech Labeling

November 16, 1999

More than three dozen food and farm organizations have urged President Clinton to "resolutely support" current biotech food labeling policies of the Food and Drug Administration. Change could affect consumers' perceptions about the safety of biotech foods.

"It is crucial that the administration strongly support the FDA's science-based regulation of food biotechnology as the agency embarks upon a series of public hearings on the issue," said Karil Kochenderfer, director of international trade and environmental affairs, Grocery Manufacturers Association of America.

In a letter to the President, the 38 signatories said FDA "has vested its considerable credibility with consumers in the veracity of product levels in representing the safety and nutritional value of foods. If the FDA were to change its policy and require special labeling for biotech foods, such labeling could have the effect of misleading consumers into believing that biotech foods are either different from conventional foods or present a risk even though FDA has determined that the biotech food is safe."

FDA's biotech labeling policy now is that no special labeling is required for biotech foods unless the foods significantly differ from traditional counterparts. Special labeling may be required where, for example, a significant component is added or changed. Such additions or changes could affect consumers with allergies.