Boxer Labeling Bill Garners Trade Opposition

February 23, 2000

Yesterday Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) introduced a bill to mandate labeling of genetically engineered food products. Some 35 farm, food, retail and manufacturing organizations oppose it, saying it would cause consumer confusion and possibly increase food costs and reduce farm prices.

The bill would require a label that says, "This product contains a genetically engineered material or was produced with a genetically engineered material." Boxer said, "Despite the prevalence of genetically engineered food, the effects of its use remain largely unknown because of a lack of studies."

She continued, "We don't know whether genetically engineered food is harmful or whether it is safe. However, enough scientists have raised concerns, including increased exposure to allergens, decreased nutritional value, increased toxicity and increased antibiotic resistance."

Boxer. s bill is similar to one introduced in the House by Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-OH).

The Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA) was one the groups urging Congress to reject mandatory labeling for GMO foods. "We want to remind senators that the federal government has a science-based framework in place to regulate products developed through biotechnology," said Karil Kochenderfer, GMA director for international trade and environmental affairs.

In their statement, the trade groups noted that the products of biotech are safe and have cleared regulatory hurdles at the food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and USDA. "These products would not be allowed on the market if they had not met the highest U.S. safety standards," the groups said in a letter to every member of the Senate.

The legislation would require labeling on all biotech food, food ingredients, dietary supplements, feed and products from animals fed biotech commodities, they noted. "This would require segregation from farm to supermarket and would result in higher food costs and lower farm prices."