GMO foods and labels: many angles, many squabbles

摘要

The ongoing debates about genetically modified organisms in food, especially over label statements saying a food lacks GMOs, seem to be everywhere all at once. Issues like whether to require label disclosures, whether to prohibit voluntary label disclosures, and whether and how to certify a food is non-GMO continue to occupy legislators, regulators, and industry. Recent chapters include a state stepping out to try to require label disclosures and a surprising new voluntary government certification program. To set the terms of the debate, let's ask this: Which of the following statements about label statements and GMOs would everyone agree with: 1. They are safe so a food label disclosing that they are present is not necessary. 2. They are not safe so a food label disclosing that they are present is necessary. 3. They are safe but a food label disclosing that they are present is desirable anyway. As you may have guessed, you can't get everyone's agreement on any of these statements. Industry often likes the first statement, there doesn't seem to be much factual support for the second statement, and consumer advocacy groups often say they agree with the third statement. (For the record, I suspect they do question safety after all and that's really why they want label disclosures.)