A group of 35 trade associations, representing grocers, food processing and business groups, sent a letter to senators urging them to oppose the bill. The Department of Agriculture has approved 50 genetically engineered plants, with wheat, apples and strawberries among the commodities close to reaching the market. In January, snack maker Frito-Lay Inc. announced it would stop using genetically altered corn. The action followed last summer's announcement by Gerber and Heinz that they would stop using genetically modified ingredients in baby food, even though they believe the ingredients are safe. Thailand has banned import of genetically engineered food seeds.
Countries including Great Britain, Germany and Japan require labeling.
The FDA currently requires labels for significant changes in foods, including nutrient composition or the introduction of allergens. BIO always has supported this policy. Current FDA policy also allows food producers to provide choice by voluntarily labeling foods as long as the information is truthful and not misleading. For example, voluntary labels are used to identify Kosher foods. Foods derived from crops improved through biotechnology have been subjected to more testing and scrutiny in advance of commercialization than any foods in our history.