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

From January 8, 2016, pre-packaged genetically modified foods must be labeled with the word “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, pre-packaged 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 its content on the product label, according to regulations.

From the effective date of this circular, genetically modified foods currently in circulation 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 pre-packaged items. Fresh foods and processed foods that are not packaged are not subject to these regulations.

Pre-packaged 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 pre-packaged goods.

Currently, there is no scientific evidence 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 in the world.

In Vietnam, although only 4 varieties of genetically modified corn 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, the regulation of labeling for genetically modified foods will contribute to the transparency of information so that users can make choices.

According to vietnamnet