In November, Coloradans have the opportunity to exercise their power as citizens and consumers by voting for mandatory labeling of genetically modified and genetically engineered food. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically engineered (GE) foods are produced when food is manipulated at the genetic level and no longer resembles what is found in nature.
Mandatory labeling measures appear as Proposition 105 on the Colorado statewide ballot. Proposition 105 asserts consumers have the right to know whats in their food.
At its core, Proposition 105 is about consumer rights and the ability to make informed decisions and choices.
Heres what you need to know about Proposition 105 and why it matters to all consumers, not just those in Colorado.
5. Under Proposition 105, GMOs and genetically engineered foods will be labeled as Produced With Genetic Engineering.
Labeled foods include foods containing genetically engineered components and ingredients, and foods where the source organism has been treated with genetically engineered materials.
What does this mean for consumers? At the grocery store, genetically altered packaged products will be clearly labeled, as will containers of genetically altered produce.
4. Some food will not be subject to labeling.
Foods not subject to labeling include animal feed, meat and products from animals that have consumed genetically engineered animal feed or medication, food served in restaurants, alcohol, and chewing gum.
Why label some foods and not others? One subject per ballot initiative is allowed under state law in Colorado. Restaurants, for example, are subject to different regulations than retail food products and as such are not covered by Proposition 105.
3. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. and Whole Foods Market support Proposition 105.
Chipotle would not fall under Proposition 105, however, the restaurant chain endorses consumers right to know what they are eating. Chipotle already labels GMO products on their menu and is working to phase out GMOs in their menu.
2. Well-known food companies are funding the campaign against Proposition 105.
*Bumble Bee Foods, LLC *Land OLakes, Inc.
*Cargill Incorporated *Monsanto Company
*The Coca-Cola Company *PepsiCo, Inc.
*ConAgra Foods, Inc. *Smithfield Foods, Inc.
*General Mills, Inc. *Sunny Delight Beverage Company
*The J.M. Smucker Company *Welchs
All parties involved in the food supply chain would have to declare no genetic modifications had been made to their components and products under Proposition 105. Retailers and manufacturers see this as a burden.
1. U.S. federal law does not regulate the labeling or safety ofGMO food.
The FDA allows voluntary labeling, but no nationwide mandatory labeling system exists.
