The Codex Committee on Food Labeling (CCFL) is currently considering the issue of genetically modified (GM) food labeling in an effort to develop guidelines for international harmonization. This paper provides a summary of the CCFL's seven-year effortto develop a standard for the labeling of biotechnology-derived foods. It is hoped that the CCFL will continue to meet its objective of protecting consumers while facilitating trade by developing the best labeling policies for harmonization.