Senate Democrats-Republicans Bow to Monsanto, Crush Vermont Labeling Law [View all]

[eridani]

http://readersupportednews.org/news-section2/318-66/37636-focus-senate-democrats-republicans-bow-to-monsanto-crush-vermont-labeling-law

Republicans and Democrats on the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee have struck a deal that would create the first nationwide standard for foods containing genetically modified organisms.

Under the agreement, consumers may still have difficulty figuring out if the food they are buying is genetically modified because it wouldn’t mandate printing "GMO" on the exterior. Instead, the agreement would offer three options for disclosure: text on the packaging, a symbol, or an electronic link that would direct consumers to a website for more information.

In another concession to the biotech industry, the bill would tightly define genetic engineering in a way that doesn’t include new techniques such as gene editing.

Beef, pork, poultry and eggs wouldn’t be subject to labeling, though the deal would cover many other grocery staples including corn flakes and cooking oil.

Companies with a stake in the outcome include Monsanto Co, General Mills Inc., Campbell Soup Co., Kellogg Co., Conagra Foods Inc. and Mars Inc.