Session F10: Room | ||
Sunday PMFORUM: Managing risk in the face of the biotech debate: What you need to know if you are considering going "non-GMO" | ||
| Moderator(s): | J. Slocum, United Soybean Board | |
| Panelist(s): | S. J. Risch, Science By Design T. P. Redick, Gallop, Johnson & Neuman, LC B. Bryant, Bryant Christie Inc. | |
| Time: | 1:30 PM | |
| As food companies and retailers are faced with increasing pressure from anti-biotech activist groups and product recalls associated with StarLink corn, some have felt compelled to make commitments to source “non-GMO” ingredients to protect the reputation of their brands. Although it may seem like a reasonable solution, experts say that the implications are numerous and it is critical to “look before you leap.” This session will address the potential legal risks associated with declaring your products “non-GMO,” including liability risks that may occur as a result of rejecting technologies that have the potential to make foods safer. Additionally, this legal exploration will include a discussion about consumer fraud liability. Random tests of products being promoted as “non-GMO” have resulted in even more product recalls and negative publicity for companies trying to meet the perceived demands of their customers. Without careful legal and scientific management of the process behind "non-biotech" representations, companies may face fraud suits over unwanted "biotech" content. In addition to liability risks, a world trade expert will share insights on the current international regulatory environment and efforts to establish more harmonized multilateral standards for biotech ingredients/products. Learn how those efforts might help or harm U.S. food companies. You will also look at biotechnology through the eyes of a producer who farms soybeans, corn and wheat, and a food scientist who has first-hand knowledge of the issues food companies are facing and how those issues impact product formulations and research and development. Attendees will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the liability risks associated with making a “non-GMO” commitment while developing a more thorough knowledge of biotechnology from the global food economy perspective. | ||