Natural Grocers recently scored a significant win over the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). A federal appeals court ruled in favor of the grocer and the Center for Food Safety. This decision focuses on consumer rights to clear and accurate food information under the Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard Act.
The court found several key issues with the USDA’s labeling rules. Here are the main takeaways:
Use of Terms: Retailers can now use the term “GMO,” which many consumers easily recognize, instead of “bioengineered,” a term that many found confusing.
Clear Labeling: The court emphasized that companies can’t just rely on QR codes or text messages. Labels must be straightforward and visible on the packaging itself.
Ingredient Transparency: The ruling mandates that the USDA cannot exempt highly processed foods, like oils and sugars, from labeling. Even if the genetic alterations are not detectable in the final product, the origins matter.
Heather Isely, Vice President of Natural Grocers, highlighted, “Congress never intended to require the use of specific terms, the sole use of QR codes, or the exclusion of ingredients made from highly processed GMO crops.” She welcomed the court’s recognition of these shortcomings.
This victory isn’t just about clearer labels; it’s part of a growing consumer demand for transparency in food sourcing. Recent surveys show that over 70% of Americans want clear labeling on food products, especially concerning genetic modifications (Food & Water Watch, 2022). This trend reflects a shift in consumer preferences, as more people want to know what’s on their plates.
Natural Grocers has been a staunch advocate for GMO labeling since 2012 and took steps towards this issue with a labeling initiative in Colorado in 2014. Notably, they avoid selling most GMO ingredients, focusing instead on products derived from traditional farming methods.
This case underscores an essential part of the food industry: the call for understandable and accessible food information. As consumers increasingly prioritize transparency, such efforts may lead to broader changes in labeling practices. For more insights on food labeling and regulations, you can explore further on the USDA’s official site.
