Soybean growers welcome guidelines for labeling of Non-GMO foods

The American Soybean Association (ASA) has been trying to get a uniform standard for voluntary labeling on non-genetically modified organism (GMO) food because of consumer confusion over what foods are and are not genetically modified. 

The Food and Drug Administration announced this week they have established the standards, which are welcomed from the ASA.

“ASA is happy to see the guidance from FDA today that affirms that voluntary rather than mandatory labeling is the correct science-based and health policy,” ASA President Wade Cowan, a Texas farmer, said. “This concept has been at the heart of our work on a legislative solution that would provide more clarity to consumers, and we’re encouraged to see that part of the process move forward.”

The White House administration has rejected a petition for mandatory labeling of GMO’s which the ASA believes can lead to discussion on biotechnology based on science and not misconceptions among consumers. 

“We have consistently said that explicit labeling should be reserved for health or safety concerns, and science has time and time again proven that these concerns don’t apply to GMOs,” Cowan said. “Slapping a warning label on the front of a food product when no such warning is warranted will only serve to steer people away from the safe and affordable food they need to feed their families. The White House has chosen science over rhetoric today, and we applaud them for it.”

Cowan said the Senate has the ability in the coming weeks to establish a path forward on labeling that is based in science and doesn’t stigmatize a safe and proven technology, but at the same time provides consumers with the information they want.