Massachusetts Urged to Reject Labeling

May 24, 2001

The Grocery Manufacturers of America has urged members of the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Commerce and Labor to reject a state proposal requiring mandatory labels for biotech foods. "The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) already regulates the introduction of and labeling of biotech foods," said Lisa Katic, director of science and nutrition policy at GMA. "This makes mandatory state labeling for genetically-enhanced food products unnecessary and redundant."

In testimony before Massachusetts lawmakers, Katic pointed out that FDA has been reviewing biotech crops for decades and has determined that these foods are as safe or safer than foods developed through crossbreeding and traditional methods. Katic also noted that in addition to FDA review, food biotechnology is regulated for safety and environmental impact by USDA and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Katic said that while GMA opposes mandatory labeling, the food industry understands consumers want to learn about the benefits of biotech. "A label is just not the best vehicle to educate consumers about modern biotechnology in a truthful and non-misleading manner," said Katic. "Based on repeated surveys, we know consumers would view the label as a warning. The scientific evidence points in the exact opposite direction. There is simply no basis for sending this type of warning to consumers."

Current U.S. policy on labeling, Katic added, based on science, "has consistently served the best interests of consumers. It would be a mistake to make unnecessary changes to that system and begin a process that could lead to an unmanageable patchwork quilt of state regulations on labeling practices," concluded Katic.