GM Labeling Bill

Food Poisoning Bulletin is reporting that Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) and Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR) are co-sponsoring a bill to “mandate labeling of foods containing genetically modified ingredients.”  But, will the bill include pet food/animal food?

Recently I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Wenonah Hauter leader of Food and Water Watch.  She was doing a book signing (Foodopoly) at a local bookstore.  Wenonah was wonderful – more than wonderful – she was amazing in her explanation of what has happened to the food system in the U.S.  But something else I learned at this get-together caused concern.

At the book signing was also Representatives of Slow Food Florida which are working in Florida for proposed GMO Labeling laws (separate from the federal GMO labeling bill).  After the meet with Wenonah Hauter, I introduced myself to the Slow Food folks and asked them to make certain that the wording on the bill includes pet food/animal food.

I was told “no, pet food or animal food will not be included – we’d never get it passed if it was.”  I asked why, but didn’t receive an explanation.

Back in January, at the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) meetings, a presentation was done by three industry representatives against GMO labeling (Pet Food Institute, American Feed Industry Association, and National Grain and Feed Association).  No opportunity for a prepared rebuttal was provided (as was provided to industry) and AAFCO has told me they have no plans to provide equal time to opposing groups.  That presentation caused me to wonder if behind the scenes, industry lobby groups such as Pet Food Institute, American Feed Industry Association, and National Grain and Feed Association were quietly working officials to exclude pet foods/animal foods from future GMO labeling.  Turns out, my concern might be accurate.

It would be reckless of Washington and reckless of any state to exclude the labeling of pet foods from GMO labeling laws.  This is something our Association for Truth in Pet Food will be keeping a close eye on and lobbying for the interests of our consumer members.  But – and this is a big but – if you wish for pet food to be required to label GMO ingredients, please take a moment to write Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) and Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR) a brief message asking that pet foods be included in the GMO labeling bill.

We need this.  We deserve this.

Wishing you and your pet(s) the best,

Susan Thixton
TruthaboutPetFood.com
Association for Truth in Pet Food
Pet Food Safety Advocate
Author Buyer Beware, Co-Author Dinner PAWsible

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