An organic industry leader says a voluntary GMO labeling system already exists.
Jim Riddle, coordinator of organic research programs for Ceres Trust, says GMO labeling is pretty much common sense. “Sixty-four countries around the world already require that foods that contain genetically engineered ingredients be labeled as such—pretty common sense—all of Europe, all of our major trading partners, but the U.S. does not.”
Riddle says the U.S. House GMO labeling bill would prohibit Vermont and the almost 30 states considering some kind of mandatory labeling legislation.
“There’s no need for this legislation except to stop people from knowing if their foods contain genetically modified ingredients or not.”
He says the debate is not about safety, but transparency.
“Just give people the information and let the free market decide the fate of this technology instead of forcing it down peoples’ throats without their knowledge or consent.”
Riddle says organic food and food certified with the Non-GMO project is GMO free and labeled as such.
Ceres Trust provides funds for organic research and documentary films about environmental issues.
Source: www.brownfieldagnews.com