Oregon GMO labeling initiative secures place on November ballot

24-Jul-2014 - Last updated on 25-Jul-2014 at 15:16 GMT

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An initiative to mandate the labeling of foods containing ingredients from genetically engineered crops has qualified for a statewide vote in Oregon in November.

To date the state has certified 118,780 signatures in support of 'Measure 92', well in excess of the 87,213 needed to qualify for the ballot.

If adopted, the Genetically Engineered Raw and Packaged Food Labeling Act (Measure 92) would require firms to label raw and packaged foods produced entirely or partially by genetic engineering.

The measure would not apply to animal feed or food served in restaurants and would come into effect in January 2016.

Whole Foods Market, which has eight stores in Oregon, told suppliers last year that they must label products made using GE ingredients by 2018, and has come out in support of Measure 92.

"We label ingredients, we label allergens, we label nutrients, and we label countries of origin. Why wouldn't we also require labeling for genetic modification? The time has come for the people of Oregon to let their voices be heard and make a change," said Joe Rogoff, regional president for the chain's Pacific Northwest region.

Click HERE to read the proposed Act in full and click HERE to see more details on the signatures.