Jun 10, 2016

United Fresh releases white paper on Vermont labeling law compliance

United Fresh Produce Association has published a white paper and legal backgrounder to assist member companies in understanding and complying with a labeling law for genetically engineered foods due to go in effect in Vermont on July 1.

The white paper advises retailers about the small number of commodities that might possibly be genetically engineered and thus fall under the labeling law.

“It’s important for Vermont retailers seeking to comply with the law to understand that only a very few produce items might be covered,” Tom Stenzel said. “We have heard some cases of companies asking all of their produce suppliers for certification that products are not genetically engineered, but that is unnecessary and adds needless cost to the supply chain. Hopefully this white paper will be helpful in directing the industry’s attention only to those commodities that could possibly be covered by the law,” he said.

The white paper also reinforces the association’s support for the use of modern technology in plant breeding, which will be critical to tackling challenges of pest, diseases and drought, as well as enhancing nutrition and other consumer attributes, according to United Fresh.

The white paper is available for download on the United Fresh website here.