EPA's Modest Tweak To Ethanol Mandate Step In Right Direction, Congress Must Continue Re-Evaluating RFS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – “The baking industry recognizes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) modest proposal to lower the corn-based ethanol mandate.  However, ABA strongly encourages EPA to move to further alleviate the pressure corn-based ethanol puts on grain availability and costs,” said Robb MacKie, President and CEO of the American Bakers Association (ABA). “Corn-based ethanol is a factor that has led to decreased wheat acreage in the U.S. over the past 30 years and tighter food supplies around the world. According to most experts, corn-based ethanol accounts for over 40 percent of acreage planted in the United States. With a finite number of acres available for food production that becomes problematic.”

The corn-based ethanol mandate of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is a factor playing into greater market volatility and market uncertainty.  These factors lead to tighter budgets and hinder job creation at a time when businesses, including bakers, are challenged by the ongoing economic environment.

“Recently there has been scrutiny of the RFS program by Congress and this needs to continue,” said Rasma Zvaners, ABA’s Policy Director.  “The House Energy & Commerce Committee began a productive dialogue earlier this year.  Further, Congress has begun seeking solutions. In particular, the baking industry hopes the work of Representatives Peter Welch (D-VT), Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Jim Costa (D-CA) and Steve Womack (R-AR) will continue to gain momentum in the House.”

About the American Bakers Association:

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers, bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $70 billion in economic activity annually and employs close to half a million highly skilled people. Source: To read the rest of the story, please go to: 

Source: American Bakers Association