Now that the U.S. government has passed national labeling legislation on genetically modified organisms (GMOs), it's time to turn the page and look ahead.
Today, more and more consumers make decisions about what they eat based on their values, lifestyles and personal health preferences. Those of us in the agriculture, food and nutrition business need to acknowledge that. It's up to us to better tell the story of food. We haven't always done that very well.
The new GMO labeling law is an important step forward. Products containing GMO ingredients will carry either a plain-language notice, a recognizable symbol or a scannable link that leads people to an online disclosure. With these rules on the books, we now have the opportunity to create clarity and have a more thoughtful dialogue about the choices consumers make when they buy their food.
Cargill is one of the largest food and agriculture companies in the world. We partner with many of the largest — and smallest — food makers, and with millions of farmers in dozens of countries. We have a good vantage point on the challenges and opportunities ahead, and there is still much to be done.
First and foremost, we need to make sure the new legislation is implemented in ways that are most useful to consumers. Cargill stands ready to support that effort.
Now that we have a national standard for GMO labeling, we also need clear and consistent rules for non-GMO claims on food packaging. These claims are an important tool for food companies serving that growing market segment. Without a national standard, anybody can make up the rules. That results in too many gray areas and — understandably — distrust on the part of consumers. We need to start tackling that ambiguity.
While GMOs have been proven safe, they will remain a nonstarter for some consumers. We respect that. In fact, our company is building supply chains for non-GMO products so people can make their own choices for themselves and their families. We're currently expanding our non-GMO offerings in sweeteners, oils and animal feed.
But we also have to keep in mind that for many other people, GMOs are a nonissue. The presence — or absence — of GMOs doesn't change these consumers' food choices.