September 10, 2013. Opponents of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) continue to provide a persistent and vocal opposition to the use and continued development of GMO crops. This resistance continues despite ample scientific support for the continued use and development of GMO crops.
A recent article published by the editors of Scientific American™ details the costs associated with mandatory GMO labeling requirements. The article, Label for GMO Foods Are a Bad Idea, provides a reasoned argument as to why GMO crops are not only a safe and effective way to produce food but also directly address global food insecurity issues and a wide array of nutritional deficits faced by populations, especially children, in developing countries.
In the article the editors state that “Instead of providing people with useful information, mandatory GMO labels would only intensify the misconception that so-called Frankenfoods endanger people's health [see “The Truth about Genetically Modified Food”]. The American Association for the Advancement of Science, the World Health Organization and the exceptionally vigilant European Union agree that GMOs are just as safe as other foods.”
As individual states continue to pass legislation requiring mandatory labeling for food products containing GMOs (Maine and Connecticut were the first states to pass such legislation this past June), consumers, producers, and companies will face increased cost pressures. Approximately 20 states are currently reviewing legislative options concerning the mandatory labeling of products containing GMOs, ensuring that the debate surrounding this issue will only intensify. The Goosmann Law agricultural attorneys understand the complexities of the agricultural industry. For more information please call 712.226.4000 or email info@goosmannlaw.com.