What are the laws governing the use of biotechnology in agriculture?

In California, the laws governing the use of biotechnology in agriculture are set in place primarily by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). Biotechnology, in the context of agriculture, is the scientific manipulation of plants and animals at the genetic level to produce desired characteristics or traits. The CDFA has established rules and regulations to ensure the safe development, production, and use of biotechnology in California. These rules and regulations include requirements related to labeling and reporting of field trials, as well as requirements related to the containment and control of genetically engineered organisms. In addition, the CDFA has set up a permitting process for the use of biotechnology. This process requires applicants to provide detailed information about the proposed project, including information about the potential impacts of the project on the environment, public health, and agricultural production. The permit must also be approved by the state before the applicant can proceed. Finally, California also has laws related to labeling products that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Under these laws, food products containing more than 0.9 percent GMOs must be labeled as such. In summary, the use of biotechnology in California agriculture is regulated by the CDFA through the issuance of permits and adherence to labeling requirements. These regulations help ensure that the use of biotechnology is safe for the environment, public health, and agricultural production.

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What are the laws governing the use of biotechnology in agriculture?

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