Oregon Tilth provided comments on the proposed regulations to implement a food disclosure standard for genetically engineered (GE) foods. The USDA’s lack of initiative to proactively address GE issues has led to a regulatory and marketplace reality that has placed different sectors of U.S. agriculture and food industries in opposition with one another. Now is the time for the USDA to show leadership and take federal action to protect all sectors of our nation’s vibrant, valued and diverse agriculture.

Providing clear and consistent labeling disclosure rules for GE crops and products would be an important first step. However, labeling rules alone are not enough. Additional policy leadership is required to address broader coexistence issues amongst farmers and the broader food supply chain and industry.