Sen. Ernst Supports Bipartisan National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) released the following statement after voting in favor of the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, bipartisan legislation to create a national standard for labeling of food containing biotechnology ingredients.

“During my 99 county tour, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with many folks and industries across Iowa. It’s clear that our food manufacturers need standard guidance, and Iowans want safe and affordable food. This bipartisan legislation accomplishes both: it creates a national standard for biotechnology labeling, avoiding the confusing and costly patchwork of state laws that would threaten to raise food prices for the average household by over $1,000 a year.

“Scientifically proven safe biotech products are grown and processed across Iowa, providing the base to over a quarter of our state’s economy. By establishing standards for consumers and manufacturers, we can avoid price increases and confusion so that Americans can have affordable access to food.”

About the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard:

• Immediate preemption of the Vermont labeling law, as well as all other state biotech labeling laws.
• Would implement mandatory labeling requirements within two years, with the options of text, symbol, or electronic links.
• Meat, poultry, and egg products would be exempted from the labeling requirements when they are the main ingredient. Additionally, it would prohibit any food product from an animal to be classified as a biotechnology ingredient solely because the animal may have eaten food with biotechnology ingredients.

# # #