HF 2193

as introduced - 86th Legislature (2009 - 2010) Posted on 02/09/2010 02:00am

A bill for an act
relating to agriculture; requiring a Minnesota processed foods labeling report.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin REPORT ON MINNESOTA PROCESSED FOODS LABELING.
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new text begin (a) The commissioner of agriculture must consult with Minnesota food processors
and retailers regarding the development of labeling that identifies food products processed
in this state. The commissioner must consult with interested parties including, but not
limited to, the following organizations:
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new text begin (1) at least four food processor industry representatives who represent different
business sizes and product categories;
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new text begin (2) at least two food retailers of which at least one must have retail store locations
located outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area;
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new text begin (3) two representatives of the Department of Agriculture, one who works with the
Minnesota grown program and one who works with the processed foods program;
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new text begin (4) one representative of the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute; and
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new text begin (5) two representatives of statewide agricultural producer groups.
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new text begin (b) No later than February 1, 2010, the commissioner must report findings and
recommendations to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over agricultural policy
and finance. The report should include an assessment of the level of food processor interest
in developing a trademarked logo or labeling statement as well as recommendations
regarding program funding options, product eligibility criteria, and coordination with
existing labeling and promotion programs and resources.
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