Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today voted against a bill that would establish a national system for labeling food products that do not include genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while interfering with existing voluntary labeling of these products. H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015, would hurt consumer choice and businesses’ ability to label and sell their non-GMO products.

“The scientific case against GMOs in foods is not compelling. Scientific consensus from respected organizations like the American Medical Association, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the National Academies of Science is that GMO foods are generally safe.

“However, I have heard from my constituents about their concerns regarding this bill. I also understand that businesses have reasonable concerns about getting their food onto store shelves if they are facing 50 different requirements for labeling – or not labeling – their products.

“But my biggest concern with this bill is that consumers should have the choice to seek out non-GMO products. This bill does not allow a voluntary approach to GMO food labeling. The Non-GMO Project in Bellingham has been a leader in non-GMO certification and labeling, and they should be allowed to continue their work,” Larsen said.

The House passed the bill by a vote of 275 to 150.

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