1/2016: Genetically modified foods in Vietnam must be labeled

From January 8, 2016, prepackaged genetically modified foods must be labeled with the words “genetically modified” in Vietnamese.

That is the regulation set forth in Joint Circular No. 45 between the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development issued at the end of last November.

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Genetically modified foods sold in Vietnam will be required to be labeled. Illustrative photo.

Accordingly, prepackaged genetically modified foods containing at least one genetically modified ingredient greater than 5% of the total ingredients used must be labeled when circulating in the Vietnamese market.

The phrase “genetically modified” in Vietnamese will be written next to the name of the genetically modified ingredient along with the content on the product label, according to regulations.

From the effective date of this circular, genetically modified foods currently on the market will be required to be labeled according to regulations. Genetically modified foods not labeled according to regulations will no longer be allowed to be produced or imported after January 8.

However, the above regulations only apply to prepackaged items. Fresh foods and processed foods that are not packaged are not subject to these regulations.

Prepackaged goods are goods that are measured and packaged without the presence of the buyer. This type of goods is very diverse, from cakes, jams, candies, sugar and milk to MSG, spices, fish sauce, soft drinks, cement, fertilizers, pesticides, etc. According to statistics from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, 40% of all goods on the market are prepackaged goods.

Currently, there is no scientific evidence to confirm that the use of genetically modified foods is harmful to health. However, while genetically modified foods are still a controversial issue, labeling to inform consumers is essential. This is also a regulation applied by many countries around the world.

In Vietnam, although only 4 genetically modified corn varieties have been recognized (not yet widely planted), the import of genetically modified foods (soybeans, corn, etc.) has been a reality for the past decade. Therefore, labeling regulations for genetically modified foods will contribute to transparency of information so that consumers can make choices.

According to vietnamnet