Codex Takes Caution on Labeling GM Foods

Food & Drink Weekly, May 14, 2001

Recently in Ottawa, Canada, the Codex Committee on Food Labeling (CCFL) met to consider proposals for recommending special labeling for genetically modified foods. The group - considering of government officials from around the world - decided to table, for another year, the recommendation.

In discussions at the meeting, the group concluded that labeling is needed to provide information important to consumers, such as significant changes in composition or nutritional value, or the presence of potential allergens.

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) says they fully support product labeling that is accurate, informative and not misleading. BIO executive director of food and agriculture, Michael J. Phillips, said BIO supports the committee's decision to postpone consideration of this "non-scientific proposal" for at least a year.

The Codex Committee on Food Labeling is an intergovernmental committee under the Codex Alimentarious Commission, an international food standards body made up of 164 countries. Codex coordinates the development of international food standards aimed at protecting consumer health and ensuring fair food trade practices.