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HR848119th CongressWALLET

Voluntary Food Climate Labeling Act

Sponsored By: Representative Casten, Sean [D-IL-6]

Introduced

Summary

This bill would create a voluntary EPA food climate labeling program that puts numeric lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions on food packaging. It pairs on-package numbers and a QR code linking to an open EPA database with voluntary manufacturer commitments and civil penalties for fraud.

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  • Consumers: Shoppers would see numeric lifecycle GHG totals on labels and scan QR codes for detailed data in a public open database. The bill funds a consumer outreach program and retail educational materials within 3 years.
  • Food businesses: Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and sellers would need EPA authorization to use the label and would be responsible for reporting emissions from growing, processing, packaging, and distribution. They could voluntarily commit within 2 years to reduce emissions and report sustainability information.
  • Retailers and verifiers: EPA would set verification standards aligned with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 and require EPA-certified entities to measure and verify label data. The bill authorizes civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation per day for fraud or noncompliance.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

7 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 3 mixed.

Public data and shopper education on labels

Within two years, EPA would post an open-license database with methods and both lifecycle numbers for each labeled food. It would also show company pledges and other sustainability info. Within three years, EPA would give stores educational materials and run public outreach like announcements and ads to explain the label.

Fines for misuse of the EPA label

If enacted, EPA could fine up to $10,000 for each violation. Each type of food with a violation would count separately. If someone ignores an EPA order, each day could bring another fine. Courts could also order injunctions and other relief.

Standard label with two emissions numbers

The EPA would design the label and its rules. The label would show two numbers: emissions from production, and emissions from storage, use, and disposal. Companies would be responsible for the first number. EPA would develop the second number with experts and the participant, and include a logo and a QR code. Verification would use uniform standards and best science, aligned with ISO 14040/14044 and GHG Protocol standards.

Voluntary EPA climate label for foods

If enacted, EPA would set up a voluntary food climate label in consultation with USDA and the FTC. Food makers, importers, distributors, and sellers would need EPA authorization to put the label on products, and EPA could decide where the label appears. Applicants would have to assure EPA they will follow program rules; EPA would not judge a food’s environmental benefit when approving. The bill defines key terms like applicant, participant, greenhouse gases, and open license so the program is clear.

EPA rules and periodic program updates

EPA would finalize program rules within two years. EPA would update the rules by year seven and every five years after to improve results. EPA would also publish a report by year seven and every five years on whether the label helps consumers and cuts lifecycle emissions, and would send Congress improvement ideas.

Voluntary emissions-cut pledges by companies

Within two years, EPA would offer a voluntary commitments program for companies that use the label. Participating companies could pledge to cut a product’s emissions and report sustainability info using the best available science.

Technical help for companies and retailers

EPA would set up an advisory board to help companies, verifiers, and retail food stores take part in the program. The board would include experts, industry, and Agriculture officials.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Casten, Sean [D-IL-6]

IL • D

Cosponsors

  • Rep. Brownley, Julia [D-CA-26]

    CA • D

    Sponsored 1/31/2025

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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