On November 6, voters in California will decide the fate of a proposition that, if passed, may alter the national discussion over the healthfulness of bio-engineered foods from one based on science and reasoned argument to one where vote tallies and courtrooms take precedence.

Proposition 37, The California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act, would require bio-engineered food to be clearly labeled as ‘genetically engineered’.

In the case of raw agricultural products, the proposition would require fruits and vegetables produced entirely or in part by means of bio-engineering to carry the words ‘genetically engineered’ on their front packages or labels. If the item is not packaged separately and does not have an individual label, signage carrying the term ‘genetically engineered’ must appear on the shelf or bin where the item is displayed for sale.

Additionally, processed foods with ingredients that were produced entirely or in part through bio-engineering would have to be labeled as ‘partially produced with genetic engineering’ or ‘may be partially produced with genetic engineering’.

Between 40-70 per cent of food products sold in California grocery stores contain some bio-engineered ingredients and would have to be labeled under the measure, according to the Legislative Analyst’s Office, a non-partisan body providing the California legislature advice on policy and fiscal matters, in its review of Proposition 37.