Dive Brief:
- An initiative to require labeling on foods containing genetically engineered and modified ingredients failed in Washington State Tuesday, with 54.8% of voters opposing it and 45.2% in favor, USA Today reports.
- Anti-labeling forces, who spent millions fighting the initiative (and drawing the wrath of the state's attorney general for allegedly violating campaign laws), declared victory Tuesday night, though votes were still being counted.
- If the "No" forces win, it marks a considerable reversal in public opinion and would suggest that the food industry's last-minute, big-budget ad campaign blasting the proposal was effective.
Dive Insight:
Probably the worst possible outcome in this fight would a narrow win by either side. The result will be a continuation of this war—in other states and, probably quite soon, back in Washington State.