November 6, 2012 Ballot Prop. 37

Proposition 37: Labeling Genetically Engineered Foods


Official Results

Available once the California Secretary of State has certified the election. This can take up to 3 weeks or more.

Yes votes: 6,088,713 (48.6%)
No votes: 6,442,370 (51.4%)

Prop. 37 would require labeling of any raw or processed food that is made from plants or animals which have had their genetic material altered. The measure would prohibit marketing genetically engineered food as "natural". Certain foods are exempted.

Pro/Con Statements

ProCon
Proponents of Prop. 37 believe that the measure will better inform consumers on what ingredients are in food products. They say the measure will help consumers identify health risks and allergies that may exist with certain ingredients. They also claim that Prop. 37 will bring California into line with industrialized countries around the world that have labeling laws.
Opponents of Prop. 37 say that the measure will introduce greater government bureaucracy while raising taxpayer costs and increasing food costs. They claim that the measure will open the door to frivolous lawsuits. They also say that many respected scientific and medical organizations believe that genetically modified foods are safe.
SupportersOpponents
Californians Right to Know [Website archived in Internet Archive] No on Prop 37 [Website archived in Internet Archive]