This whole area scares me because I could so easily see it go either way. Frankly, I think it is at least as likely that metric units will eventually be dropped from US packaging as it is that metric-only labels will be allowed (together with mixed unit labels).
Without pointing fingers at USMA or anyone in particular, the reason, of course, is the complete lack of a funded advocacy presence in Washington by pro-metric parties, combined with well-funded organizations (food retailers, etc.) who would just as soon see the metric units dropped. Combine that with the fact that public momentum for metrication in the US is at its lowest level in 50 years, and we have a problem. From: [email protected] Sent: 02/15/2009 12:07 PM To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:43013] More companies primed to pounce on metric-only labeling I was pleasantly surprised to see our commercial containers of Coffee Mate (from Nestle) here at work labeled as a rational 1.5 L instead of some weird metric size. Of course, the floozies were there (oddball amount) and in first position, but I was heartened to see another major company (besides Proctor and Gamble) promoting rational metric sizes on their products (especially a product that is hidden from the ordinary consumer because they are destined for the commercial food or cleaning market). This just seems like another sign that some major players are ready to drop US Customary labeling altogether as soon as the FPLA gets amended. And once the "big boys" go there, the smaller players and the private labels will quickly follow suit. Can't wait to see that happen. Just hope we get a Secretary of Commerce who favors metrication and that the crush of other legislation doesn't crowed out passage of the amendment this year. (Gregg Judd dropping out is clearly a blessing on many counts.) -- Ezra
