GE Food Labeling Update

JPA has been providing updates regarding Vermont’s law to mandate the labeling of foods containing genetically engineered ingredients, which becomes effective on July 1, 2016. More recently, members were advised that

legislation introduced in the Senate by Pat Roberts (R-KS) to, in part, preempt states from implementing genetically engineered (GE) food labeling had not advanced in the Senate but could be voted on again if an agreement could be reached. According to an article published in the online edition of the Des Moines Register, Senator Chuck Grassely (R-IA) said it will be difficult for Congress to reach a bipartisan deal before Vermont’s law takes effect this summer. The article notes Republicans favor a voluntary labeling measure while Democrats support a mandatory labeling program.

JPA will continue to monitor and provide updates, as information becomes available.

FDA Funding for Implementation of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule

The FDA recently issued a Constituent Update announcing funding is available to all states and U.S. territories to help state agencies support implementation of the Produce Safety rule mandated by the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). According to the Agency, the funding opportunity is relevant to states with the largest number of covered produce farms to begin development of a state produce safety program. The FDA encourages applicants to utilize the funds for planning, infrastructure building, training and education and other related activities. During Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, the Agency has allocated $19 million for up to 55 awards.