The USDA’s New Labeling for Genetically Modified Foods Went into Effect Jan. 1

Starting January 1, labels at the grocery store got a makeover on foods that have been genetically modified. Foods that previously were labeled as containing “genetically engineered” (GE) ingredients or “genetically modified organisms” (GMOs) will now be labeled as “bioengineered.” The changes are part of the USDA’s new rules on controversial modified crops and ingredients. Previous labeling requirements were governed differently on a state-by-state basis. By providing a uniform, national standard for labeling bioengineered foods, “it avoids a patchwork of state labeling regulations,” a USDA spokeswoman said in a statement. However, the move is universally confounding food safety advocate groups.