State-of-Origin Labeling

Studies show that consumers overwhelmingly favor country-of-origin labeling (such as the 1996 national study by Charlton Research Company of San Francisco, which showed that 74 percent support the labeling for fresh produce). Many growers feel this logic can be extended to state-of-origin. Indeed, country- and state-of-origin labeling may be a first step towards relocalizing our food supply.

State-of-origin labeling allows consumers to support their state's agricultural economy. It also allows them to factor the impact of transporting food long distances into their purchasing decisions.

Minnesota's rules covering its Minnesota Grown program can be duplicated around the country.

European countries have long used place names for food to signify content and quality - for example, mustard from Dijon - and protected the use of place names within the country, and later the European Union. Only one state, California, has passed a law of this kind, regulating the use of Napa Valley and Napa County place names on wine labels.

See also our Country-of-Origin section.

RULES

• State-Of-Origin Labeling - Minnesota Grown
  This program is a partnership between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the growers and processors who provide quality Minnesota Grown products. It was initiated in the 1980's by fruit and vegetable growers. Since then, it has grown continually. The foundation of the program includes an annual grower license to use the trademarked Minnesota Grown logo. More...
• State-Of-Origin Labeling - Napa Valley, CA
  Section 5241 of the California Business and Professions Code regulates the use of "Napa appellations". More...
• Labeling of Genetically Engineered Fish - Alaska
  In 2005 Alaska enacted legislation that requires the labeling of all products containing genetically engineered fish and shell fish. Senate bill 25, which introduced the legislation states that all genetically engineered fish will be "conspicuously labeled to identify the fish or fish product as a genetically modified fish or fish product," whether packaged or unpackaged.  The law is intended to protect the state’s fishing industry. More...