Who can file a complaint?
Anyone who has knowledge or information regarding a possible violation of the USDA National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (BE Standard) may file a written statement or complaint. If we determine that your complaint does not pertain to the BE Standard, it will be closed without further action.
What is a BE Standard violation?
It is a violation for any person to knowingly fail to make a bioengineered food disclosure.
What information should I provide?
When reporting an alleged violation, you must provide complete identifying information about the product in question, a detailed explanation of the alleged regulatory violation, and your name and contact information. Providing as much information as possible allows USDA the opportunity to determine whether reasonable grounds exist for an investigation. Please provide:
- Store name and address where the item was purchased or observed
- Production lot codes
- Any best-by dates or sell-by dates
- Ingredient statement
- Package size of the item (net weight)
- Clear picture(s) of the item packaging, to include all sides
- Manufacturer’s information shown on the package (address, phone number)
What happens after I submit a complaint?
We will send an acknowledgement email with a complaint number. The USDA Food Disclosure and Labeling Division (FDLD) will review your complaint. After submitting a complaint, we recommend that you keep the item packaging or pictures of all sides of the item’s packaging, in case additional information is needed.
How do I file a complaint?
You may file a complaint regarding the BE Standard via the online portal or via mail.
- Online BE Complaints Portal
Please Note: If filing on the website, an initial questionnaire will prompt responses that provide complete identifying information about the product in question. Please provide responses to each question to the best of your ability. Photos should be uploaded AFTER completion of the questionnaire. Uploading photos showing all sides of the packaging is critical for USDA to assess the complaint.
Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Food Disclosure & Labeling Division
1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.,
Room 2069-S, Stop 0216
Washington, DC 20250
Any information you provide is voluntary. Comments including vulgar language may not be processed; additionally, comments including implicit or explicit threats may be escalated. Please do not include any confidential information, such as social security numbers or birth dates in your comments. Your name and contact information will be handled in accordance with the USDA Privacy Policy.