Under a law passed in 2016, USDA must establish standards for food products containing GMO ingredients. The rule is supposed to be finalized by the end of July, but it appears USDA will not meet that deadline. Russell Group President Randy Russell describes this rule as a marketing tool for the food industry. “My personal belief is over time that information will be made available via electronic disclosure. That allows food companies to have a conversation and provide information well beyond just whether or not the product has a biotech trait in it.”
Biotechnology has had its share of controversy, but Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode expects that to diminish over time. “This will be old news in 5-to-10 years. What is driving the food industry is a focus on the largest segment of the market, and that’s the millennials.” In a meeting of farm broadcasters, Bode said millennials want to know more about their food.
