Consumers are increasingly confused by food labeling claims. We are petitioning the Food and Drug Administration to provide an official definition of 'natural' and qualify for manufacturers what can and can't be labeled as natural. Consumers in our survey overwhelmingly agreed that FDA should adopt the 'natural' standards set forth by USDA for meat and poultry, as the standard for all foods wishing to make a 'natural' claim.

A growing number of consumers have already made the value judgment that 'natural' foods and ingredients are important when purchasing foods and beverages for themselves and their families. Further, for those companies deciding to manufacture or market 'natural' products, a clear, consumer-friendly definition of the term 'natural' would provide the very continuity such claims require and would help eliminate misleading practices.

The food industry wants to take the states out of the picture because they can't control them. This is how they do it. They make campaign contributions, and they hire people close to members of Congress.

I don't like food that's too carefully arranged; it makes me think that the chef is spending too much time arranging and not enough time cooking. If I wanted a picture I'd buy a painting.

It's not my victory, it's a team victory. We had a game plan. Hard work made the difference.

If people concentrated on their responsibilities, others would have their rights.