By George Anderson
If approved by the Senate, a new bill passed by the House of Representatives would set a single national standard for safety warnings on food products.
The National Uniformity for Food Act had the backing of food manufacturers who argued it would take the confusion out of labeling requirements that varied from state to state.
Critics of the bill argued it would take away states' ability to protect consumers.
According to the Des Moines Register, Gov. Tom Vilsack sent a letter to Congress arguing against passage of the bill. Mr. Vilsack and others, such as the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, believe passage of the measure could interfere with food inspections.
The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) accused critics of the bill of inaccurately portraying its intent and letter.
"Consumers deserve accurate information about the merits of this legislation," said C. Manly Molpus, GMA president and CEO in a released statement. "Unfortunately, they are unlikely to get it because some opponents have chosen to launch a misleading and factually incorrect assault on this bill. The opponents of the National Uniformity for Food Act continue to misinterpret its intent and substance.
"In fact, the bill will strengthen the existing state-federal partnership on food safety to the benefit of consumers nationwide. By providing consistent, science-based food safety standards and warning requirements, all consumers will be able to have confidence in the safety of the food supply and the information on food labels - regardless of where they live," he said.
Moderator's Comment: Should the Senate ratify the National Uniformity for Food Act? What will passage of the act mean for food producers and consumers? - George Anderson - Moderator