DeLauro Blasts FDA Approval of Genetically-Engineered Salmon and Decision Not to Require Labeling

Members of Congress Condemn Voluntary GMO Labeling, Push for Mandatory GMO Labeling

WASHINGTON, DC—Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro today blasted announcements from the FDA approving weak GMO-labeling measures that deny consumers the right to know how the food they purchase for their families is produced.

The FDA also approved the application for AquAdvantage salmon, the first genetically-engineered animal sanctioned for human consumption. The agency also determined that manufacturers of AquAdvantage salmon will not be required to label the salmon as genetically-engineered.

Despite polling demonstrating that 90 percent of Americans support requiring mandatory GMO labeling, the FDA moved forward with a decision to finalize the existing policy which does not adequately inform consumers of the content of the food they buy. The policy allows manufacturers to voluntarily label their products as containing ingredients from genetically-engineered sources rather than requiring companies to disclose genetically-engineered ingredients.

DeLauro is a cosponsor of Congressman DeFazio’s bill, the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act, legislation that would require mandatory labeling of genetically-engineered foods, including genetically-engineered salmon.

“Consumers deserve to know what they are putting into their bodies and feeding to their children. Over 90 percent of Americans want to know whether the food they buy contains GMOs. FDA’s draft guidance for voluntary labeling of food from genetically modified salmon and its final guidance for voluntary labeling of food from plants are not an effective solution and leave consumers in the dark. I urge the agency to do more,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro

###