Senate committee unanimously reports consumer‑labeling bill for alternative proteins
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Summary
SB 186 would require clear qualifying terms (e.g., 'plant based', 'cell cultured') near meat terms on products made from manufactured proteins and gives enforcement to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; committee reported the bill 15–0.
Senate Bill 186, carried by Senator Angela Williams Graves, would require manufacturers who use meat or poultry terms for products made from manufactured proteins (plant‑based, cell‑cultivated, insect or fungus based) to include a clear qualifying descriptor (such as "plant based" or "cell cultured") near identifying meat terms. The bill places oversight with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and limits penalties to civil fines capped at $500 per misbranded product.
"This bill is about clarity, honesty, and confidence in the grocery store," Senator Williams Graves said, noting the measure aims to align misbranding rules with the evolved marketplace and to focus on compliance rather than criminal penalties.
Ag groups including the Virginia Cattlemen's Association, Virginia Farm Bureau, Virginia Poultry Federation, and the Virginia Agribusiness Council testified in support, citing consumer expectations and prior litigation alleging product misrepresentation. No opposition testimony was recorded in committee.
Outcome: the committee voted 15–0 to report the bill to the uncontested calendar.