Two of the countries most liberal states appear to be rejecting measures that would require mandatory labeling of some foods made with genetically modified crops.
The Colorado version of the bill was soundly rejected by more than 2-to-1, 68-32 percent. Proposition 105 would have required food manufacturers to label most food that has been genetically modified to have the label “Produced with Genetic Engineering,” starting July 1, 2016. There were exemptions for food from animals that have consumed genetically modified food or drugs, food intended for immediate consumption, alcoholic beverages, food for animals and medically prescribed food.
The vote was much tighter in Oregon, with Measure 92 trailing by 1.2 percent, with only a few remaining votes to be counted. Official results may not be available until Friday.
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If passed Measure 92 would take effect in January 2016, requiring retailers of food grown from genetically engineered seeds to include labels with the words “Genetically Engineered” prominently displayed on the front or back of a package. It would also require manufacturers of packaged food produced entirely or partially by genetic engineering to include “Produced with Genetic Engineering” or “Partially Produced with Genetic Engineering” on packages.
Vermont’s Legislature passed a GMO-labeling law this spring, but it’s now on hold pending a legal challenge from opponents. Connecticut and Maine have passed GMO labeling laws, but both states require other states to pass labeling bills before the laws take effect.
