Brasília, April 6, 2004 (Agência Brasil) - When they buy food products with genetically modified ingredients, the so-called "transgenics," consumers in Brazil will find on the package the expression "may contain transgenic soybeans" or a symbol with the letter "T" printed in black on a yellow background. This labeling was determined by the Ministry of Agriculture for the commercialization of all products that contain more than 1% of transgenic raw materials.

The decree also establishes that products manufactured from genetically modified soybeans, such as vegetable oils and margarines, as well as products such as milk, eggs, and meat derived from animals whose rations contain transgenics, should also have the phrase printed on the label. "With this, consumers conquer the right to know what they are eating," explains Gabriela Vuolo, a Greenpeace activist.

To ensure that the norm is being adhered to, inspections will be carried out by the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Justice.

Translator: David Silberstein