Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin has signed a law requiring the labeling of genetically-engineered foods, making the state the first in the country to mandate genetically modified organism (GMO) labeling.
Under the new law, foods that are made entirely or partially with genetic engineering must be labeled to indicate the fact, effective 1 July 2016.
The bill also creates a special fund to support the implementation and administration of the labeling law.
Speaking at the signing event, Governor Shumlin said Vermonters take the food and how it is produced seriously, and have a right to know what is in the food they buy.
"I am proud that we're leading the way in the United States to require labeling of genetically engineered food. More than 60 countries have already restricted or labeled these foods, and now one state - Vermont -- will also ensure that we know what's in the food we buy and serve our families," Shumlin added.
Image: Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin at signing event. Photo: courtesy of Center for Food Safety.
