For related articles and more information, please visit OCA’s Genetic Engineering page and our Millions Against Monsanto page.


Reuters/Stephen Lam

Mandatory labeling of genetically-engineered foods available to consumers would result in a cost increase of $2.30 per person each year, according to a new study that analyzed research on labeling costs ahead of Oregon’s ballot initiative on the issue.

The report, conducted by economic research firm ECONorthwest, examined
“existing research presented in academic and other publications relevant to the question of [genetically engineered] labeling costs” that used models pertinent to the requirements vested in Ballot Measure 92, the labeling initiative Oregon residents will vote on this November.

If passed, the main demands of Ballot Measure 92 would mandate sufficient labels on any packaged food with a GE ingredient and in-store placards or labels on GE raw foods. Food producers and food retailers, respectively, would be responsible for those costs. Any food that has a GE-ingredient weight of 0.9 percent must comply with the labeling standards, which are similar to the requirements for GMO labeling in the European Union.

The study, commissioned by GMO-labeling supporter Consumers Union, sought to synthesize how costs involved in implementing the labeling requirements facing Oregon voters will be passed on to consumers of the relevant goods.

The effects of Ballot Measure 92 – like similar measures that have been defeated in recent years – have been the subject of studies funded by major food manufacturers and retailers. They claimed that labeling GMO food would pass off hundreds of dollars in increased costs per person.