Labels On The Horizon

As of Wednesday, Connecticut is one step closer to requiring labels for genetically modified ingredients in food.

The state legislative Environment Committee approved the measure in a 23-6 vote, despite the protests of detractors.

The state Department of Agriculture and Connecticut Farm Bureau are against labeling, arguing Connecticut will become less competitive from a commercial standpoint. They also point out the FDA does not require labeling.

Momentum

Supporters of the mandate, however, contend labeling provides crucial information to consumers who have a right to know what they're eating.

Nearly 20 states are currently mulling a labeling requirement. Although no federal labeling requirement exists currently, a group of 55 lawmakers have sent a letter to the FDA urging them to take action.

Read More:

• Labels for altered foods win backing in Conn. (CBS News)
• Connecticut raises modified food concerns (WAMC)