Alexandria, Virginia, USA
November 20, 2015

American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) President and CEO Andrew LaVigne made the following statement regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision to reject a petition calling for mandatory labeling of foods made with genetically engineered (GE) organisms:

“We applaud the FDA’s decision to stand up for science and reject calls for mandatory labeling of GE foods.  The FDA has made it clear—as it did in its 1992 policy—that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that foods derived from GE organisms differ from foods derived from non-GE organisms in any meaningful way, or that they present any greater safety concerns.

“ASTA continues to support voluntary labeling and the U.S. government’s use of sound science in agriculture policies.”

Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. Our mission is to be an effective voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world.
ASTA's broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. We promote the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.

Website: http://www.betterseed.org/

Published: November 20, 2015