California leads the way on labeling GMO

This fall, voters in California will decide whether or not food that has been manufactured with genetically modified organisms should be labeled as such (it’s Proposition 37, for you Californians).  Considering that polls are finding around 90% of the public supports this, expect this to pass, but also expect it to be challenged in the courts as corporate profits would be impacted by such a law (well, assuming that people don’t want to eat food with GMO, that is).  If this passes, you can also expect other states to start following California’s lead with laws of their own, though really, given the size of California’s economy, merely enacting such a law there will have a ripple effect nationwide.

Read more here.

Genetically Engineered Crops

If you’re not sure what all the fuss is about genetically modified crops, you owe it to yourself to check out this quick (4 minute) video that does a great job of explaining the issue:

I’m all for improving our lives through science, but GM foods is not about that…it’s about improving corporate profits through science without scientifically examining what possible effects this has on the species affected by this technology (not just the animals that eat the crops, us, but the animals that live where these crops are grown).

Walmart to sell genetically modified corn

The ingredients in processed foods are already a bit of a mystery, but what about that fresh produce you’re buying?  Most people assume it’s natural and safe for consumption.  Well, apart from the pesticide concern (like bud nip), there’s a growing concern that the produce you buy may be genetically modified (a GMO, Genetically Modified Organism).  Why should you care?  Because this is being driven by corporate greed, not science.  The health concerns have not been adequately addressed by science, but this ‘food’ is put up for sale anyway without its true nature being labeled.

This summer, Walmart plans to sell genetically engineered corn on the cob in the fresh produce section.  This engineered corn from Monsanto produces Bt toxin, a pesticide.  Feed this stuff to rats and they get organ failure.  Which somehow means it’s safe for people I guess?

So, if you care about this stuff, what can you do?  First, shop at a store that cares, like Trader Joes or Whole Foods.  Second, ask the produce manager in your local grocery store which items they have for sale are genetically modified (don’t expect them to know, but the point here is to raise consciousness and let them know their customers care about this issue).  Third, sign this petition to send a signal to Walmart.  Oh, and fourth…plant a garden and grow as much of your own food as possible, to at least minimize the scientific anomalies you introduce to your digestive tract.

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