To ensure the FDA's policy on genetically modified foods, first promulgated in 1992, keeps up with scientific knowledge, the agency is now soliciting opinions from the public. The agency held three public meetings around the country late last year. Although biotech foods have been around a while, the public's interest in the labeling of genetically modified foods has bloomed because of recent events. As more products are expected to reach the market in the coming years, people are worried about their safety. Environmentalists and activists recently became concerned about a laboratory-based study indicating that monarch butterflies might be harmed by eating pollen from corn with the Bt gene.
Further investigations are under way.
Before the treaty can go into effect it must be ratified by 50 countries, a process that could take two to three years. Europe has also been resisting genetically modified crops. Companies are beginning to bow to consumer pressures. Heinz and Gerber announced they would not used genetically modified material in their baby food. Last month Frito-Lay announced it was asking growers not to use genetically modified crops.