Biotech food updates

NFPA said it supports use of the terms “biotechnology” and “genetically engineered” to describe plants derived through recombinant DNA technology and recommends they be used consistently in label claims to clarify that it is the plant sources of food and food ingredients that have been developed through biotechnology and not the ingredients themselves. Like FDA, NFPA believes that claims such as “GMO free,” “not genetically modified,” and “free of genetically modified organisms” are not technically accurate and may be misleading or not well understood by consumers. As yet, there is insufficient scientific information to establish a threshold for use of the term “free.” NFPA is chary of any claims that consumers may take to mean the labeled food is superior to foods not so labeled or that implies any type of warning. NFPA also concurs with FDA that a “certified organic” statement would be enough to substantiate a claim that the food was not produced through biotechnology. Also, in mid-February the European Parliament overwhelmingly voted to approve what is described as “the toughest [genetically modified organism] legislation in the world.” The new rules include stricter labeling and monitoring of genetically altered foods, animal feeds, seeds, and pharmaceutical products. At the same time, it would lift the current moratorium on licensing new biotech products. All 15 member countries of the EU must accept the new rules, a process expected to take as long as 18 months.