DeLauro Requests GAO Study on Cell-Cultured Food Products

WASHINGTON, DC (March 28, 2018) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today sent a letter to United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting an examination of the regulatory framework surrounding cell-cultured foods. Cell-cultured foods are food products derived from laboratory-grown cells rather than traditional livestock.

"Recent innovations in cell-cultured foods have caught the attention of producers, marketers, and venture capitalists alike. Over the past few years, some of the largest food companies in the United States have started to invest in cell-cultured technologies," wrote DeLauro. "While not yet commercially available, the potential introduction of this new type of product into the nation's food supply and economy raises many important questions."

"To date, it remains unclear exactly how cell-cultured food products should be regulated," continued DeLauro. "More information is needed for Congress to address this emerging sector in the United States and to ensure it is properly overseen by the relevant executive agencies once these products are commercially available."

A copy of the full letter can be found here.

DeLauro serves as Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee responsible for funding the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and is a senior Democrat on the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee.