FDA Regulations on GM Foods

The Food and Drug Administration is one of the main government agencies responsible for regulating genetically modified foods in the United States. Since the onset of GM foods in the marketplace, the FDA established various rules about the products. Many organizations support these regulations, while others believe they don't go far enough.

Function

According to FDA regulations, all companies introducing new GM foods for market must consult with the organization at least 120 days before release. Health safety data must be made available to the public.

Features

The FDA, while not requiring companies to place labels on packaging, outlines specific guidelines regarding voluntary labeling. For example, a company cannot label a product "GM-free" if genetically modified materials are used.

Significance

One specific protein, Cry9C, found in yellow corn is regulated by the FDA. The agency requires a testing protocol and sampling when the corn's protein is found in products designed for human use.

Considerations

According to the Organic and Non-GMO Report, biotechnology companies support the general regulations controlled by the FDA. But consumer and environmental groups criticize the FDA for a lack of rules.

Effects

The FDA has been the subject of a number of lawsuits regarding its regulations on GM foods. One of the most notable of these is a 2006 lawsuit from the Center for Food Safety claiming the FDA is responsible for "unreasonable delay" in dealing with new laws.