California Rejects Labeling Measure for Genetically Engineered Foods

Voters in California rejected Proposition 37, a ballot measure closely monitored by IDFA, that would…

Voters in California rejected Proposition 37, a ballot measure closely monitored by IDFA, that would have mandated changes to labeling requirements for genetically modified food products sold in the state. The initiative was defeated by a 53 percent to 47 percent margin.

If it had passed, certain dairy products sold in California made with genetically engineered ingredients would have had to make a special declaration on the label, and these products would no longer be able to use "natural" claims. Opponents of the measure believed that the labeling requirement would have caused food prices to rise and could have raised unnecessary and unfounded concern among consumers about the safety of these products.

According to a CBS News report, more than a dozen states have introduced bills on genetically engineered labeling this year, but none have passed. 

For more information, contact Jerry Slominski, IDFA senior vice president of legislative and economic affairs, at jslominski@idfa.org or (202) 220-3512.