Consumers to see changes in ethanol labeling at the pump

Change took place in June

Consumers may have noticed changes to the way ethanol-blended gasoline is labeled at their local gas station thanks to rule changes.

The N.C. Rules Review Commission recently approved changes adopted by the Gasoline and Oil Inspection Board that regulate the way ethanol and other oxygenated gasoline blends can be labeled.

"These changes will not affect the type of fuel provided by gas stations, but it will require station operators across the state to clearly define any blends they sell," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

"Consumers will be able to use the labels to make a more informed decision when they fill up at the pump."

Across the state, 95 percent of gas stations carry some form of ethanol-blended gasoline. Several of those gas stations already displayed some type of labeling voluntarily. The new rules require all gas stations to provide labeling for pumps that dispense blended gasoline.

Under the changes, gasoline containing 10 percent or less by volume of ethanol will be required to include a label that states "may contain up to 10 percent ethanol" or similar wording.

For blends containing between 10 and 15 percent ethanol, the label will state "contains up to 15 percent ethanol" or similar wording. Any blend containing between 15 and 85 percent ethanol will be required to include a label stating the exact volume percentage of ethanol. E85 blends are not affected by the changes.