Vermont moves toward labeling of GMO foods

Vermont lawmakers have passed the country’s first state bill to require the labeling of genetically modified foods as such, setting up a war between the behemoth U.S. food industry and an American public that overwhelmingly approves of the idea.

The Vermont House approved the measure Wednesday, about a week after the state Senate. Gov. Peter Shumlin says he plans to sign it.

Genetically modified organisms – often used in crop plants – have been changed at their genetic roots to be resistant to insects, germs or herbicides. The Vermont vote now puts the U.S. on the map of governments taking a stance against the practice that has led to bountiful crops but has stirred concerns about the dominance of big agribusiness

The requirements would take effect July 1, 2016.