NPA Wants National Standard on GMO Food Labeling

WASHINGTONThe Natural Products Association (NPA) Board of Directors is calling for all foods containing genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) to be accurately labeled under a national uniform standard so consumers can make educated decisions about foods they purchase.

This is really very simplepeople have a right to know whats in their food. A national standard is the best, most cost-effective and least-confusing way to deliver on this commitment for American consumers. To have hundreds of different state and local requirements would be counterproductive and expensive. As the nations largest association of the natural products industry, NPA is ready to play a leadership role in this effort," said NPA Executive Director and CEO John Shaw.

The debate over whether to label foods containing GMOs has been front and center since last year when California introduced Proposition 37, which would have required manufacturers of food and beverageswhether those foods are raw or processedto disclose use of any GM ingredients in a clear and conspicuous" manner. The measure was defeated by voters in November 2012, but at least 22 states, including Washington, Hawaii, New Mexico and Colorado, have expressed interest in similar legislation.

NPAs guiding principles, drafted with NPA members under advisement of NPA staff and legal counsel, include: