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To amend the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 to establish and carry out a pilot program to use blockchain technology in food safety and labeling.
3/8/2024, 4:45 AM
Summary of Bill HR 4199
Blockchain technology is a decentralized, secure, and transparent system that allows for the tracking and verification of data in a tamper-proof manner. By incorporating blockchain technology into the food industry, the goal is to enhance the safety and accuracy of food labeling, as well as improve traceability throughout the supply chain.
The pilot program outlined in the bill will test the effectiveness of using blockchain technology in food safety and labeling by partnering with various stakeholders in the food industry. This includes farmers, producers, distributors, retailers, and regulatory agencies. The program will focus on tracking the journey of food products from farm to table, ensuring that accurate information about the product's origin, production methods, and safety measures are readily available to consumers. By leveraging blockchain technology, the pilot program aims to increase consumer trust in the food supply chain, reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and improve overall food safety standards. The results of the pilot program will be evaluated to determine the feasibility and potential benefits of implementing blockchain technology on a larger scale in the food industry. Overall, Bill 118 hr 4199 seeks to explore the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing food safety and labeling practices, ultimately benefiting both consumers and industry stakeholders.
Congressional Summary of HR 4199
This bill directs the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to establish and carry out a pilot program to use blockchain technology in food safety and food labeling. (In general, a blockchain is a digital database containing information that can be simultaneously used and shared within a large decentralized, publicly accessible network.)
Specifically, the pilot program must, to the extent practicable, use blockchain technology to (1) trace food that may be adulterated and food that has been subject to a voluntary or mandatory recall; and (2) verify that food labeled as organic has been produced and handled in accordance with specific organic certification standards.
The Department of Agriculture must enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Food and Drug Administration to implement the program.
