(a) Implementation. Except for small food manufacturers, the implementation date for this part is January 1, 2020. For small food manufacturers, the implementation date is January 1, 2021.

(b) Voluntary compliance.

(1) Regulated entities may voluntarily comply with the requirements in this part until December 31, 2021.

(2) During this period, regulated entities may use labels that meet requirements of preempted State labeling regulations for genetically engineered food. Stickers or ink stamps may be applied to existing labels to provide appropriate bioengineered food disclosures provided that the stickers or ink stamps do not obscure other required label information.

(c) Mandatory compliance. All regulated entities must comply with the requirements of this part beginning on January 1, 2022.