Georgia House Bill HB908

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24

Caption

Food service establishments; certain food products be disclosed as containing cell cultured meat and plant based meat alternatives; require

Impact

The implementation of HB 908 is expected to reshape consumer choices and expectations related to food products. By requiring clear labeling of cell cultured and plant-based meat products, the bill addresses growing consumer interest in alternative proteins and may influence market dynamics. Advocates for the bill argue that the disclosure will empower consumers to make informed decisions based on their dietary preferences and ethical considerations regarding meat consumption.

Summary

House Bill 908 aims to amend regulations concerning food service establishments in Georgia by mandating that any food products that contain cell cultured meat or plant-based meat alternatives must be disclosed on menus. The bill defines 'cell cultured meat' as products artificially grown from animal tissues and 'plant based meat alternatives' as products derived from plants designed to resemble conventional meat. This legislation is poised to impact both consumers and food service providers, ensuring transparency in food labeling.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 908 include the potential backlash from food service establishments that may argue the regulations create additional compliance burdens. There are concerns that the requirements could mislead consumers if the labelings are not clearly understood, particularly regarding the distinction between conventional meat and alternative products. Moreover, the question of whether these disclosures will affect consumer perceptions and willingness to purchase alternative meat products remains open for debate.