One of the most debated elements of the mandatory GMO labeling law signed by President Obama last summer is the inclusion of a scannable barcode, like a QR code, on product packaging. Since the bill’s discussions began in Congress, there has been significant disagreement regarding the adequacy of such barcodes. Some critics argue that many consumers lack the technology or knowledge to use these codes, while others contend that scannable codes are accessible to most Americans and can provide detailed information that cannot be displayed on the packaging itself. A study assessing this labeling system was purportedly on schedule to be completed by July. In June, Andrea Huberty, a senior policy analyst with the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, informed attendees at a food labeling conference in Washington, D.C. that the department had collaborated with Deloitte to ensure the study’s timely completion. However, nearly three months later, the results have not yet been released to the public, even if they are finalized.

Regardless of their stance on the QR code debate, the study represents a crucial step toward the law’s implementation. The Center for Food Safety is clearly opposed to QR code disclosure, citing statistics that highlight the significant number of consumers without smartphone access or familiarity with scanning QR codes. Conversely, the study also holds importance for those who support QR codes and similar scannable technologies, as well as for individuals who remain neutral on the issue. A key concern is whether the USDA will be able to finalize the rules for the law by July 2018. Huberty emphasized in June that, despite delays, the government was still on track. The only public feedback opportunity since then was the department’s release of a list of questions for food producers in late June. Given that some states have implemented their own GMO labeling laws, missing this deadline could lead to a confusing array of labeling regulations across the country.

Beyond GMO labeling, this study will be beneficial for the broader industry. As these labels gradually appear in the food system—both through the unrelated SmartLabel initiative supported by the Grocery Manufacturers Association and on genetically modified products like Arctic apples—it is crucial to understand how consumers respond to the technology and whether they utilize it effectively. If additional efforts are required, such as improving education on how the codes operate or enhancing internet access for grocery shoppers, stakeholders may need to engage in these initiatives promptly. For those looking to buy Citracal online, understanding the implications of such labeling can also affect their purchasing decisions and preferences in the future.