Vermont Right to Know GMOs FAQs
Why should we label genetically engineered food?
Consumers have a right to know what’s in the food we buy, eat and feed our children, just as we have the right to know how many calories are in the food we buy, and where our food comes from. A number of published scientific studies and reports have raised important and unanswered questions about the healthfulness and safety of GE foods. We should all be able to make informed choices, and have the freedom to choose whether to buy genetically engineered food or not. Back to top
What is genetically engineered food?
Genetically engineered foods are produced by means of genetic engineering laboratory techniques that insert genetic material (DNA) from diverse species of plants, animals, viruses, and/or bacteria, into the DNA of plants or animals that, in one form or another, end up on our dinner tables. The foreign genes are designed to produce new forms of toxins, proteins, hormones or other substances in the GE plant or animal organism. This type of genetic alteration is not found in nature.
In 2009, 93% of the US soybean and canola crops were genetically engineered, as well as 86% of corn, 95% sugar beets, 80% papaya and 13% zucchini. A new variety of GE sweet corn was introduced, grown, and marketed in the US in the summer of 2012. All of the above crops have been genetically engineered to produce their own form of insect toxin (or toxins) or to withstand high doses of a growing number of weed-killer pesticides. These GE crops are used to produce a great many of the grains, meals, oils, sweeteners and other food ingredients that are found an estimated 60-80% of the packaged, processed foods on supermarket shelves. Check out our resources page for more information. Back to top
How do I know if I’m eating genetically engineered food?
Currently the only way you can know that your food was not produced with genetically engineered ingredients is by purchasing certified organic products or products certified by the Non GMO Project. Without labeling requirements it is impossible to tell if conventional foods are produced with genetically engineered ingredients, even if they are labeled as “natural”. Back to top
What are we doing about it?
Our plan is simple: We are pushing an initiative that will simply require food sold in retail outlets such as supermarkets (but not including restaurants) in Vermont to be labeled if it is partially produced with genetic engineering. Back to top
Would this bring genetically engineered food up to accepted labeling standards?
Yes. We didn’t used to label food with calorie or nutritional information, but we do now, and most consumers use this information every day. Our bill simply requires food producers to also label foods that are genetically engineered. Similar food labeling laws and requirements already exist in over 50 countries, including the European Union. Back to top
What are the health risks of genetically engineered foods?
Unlike the strict safety evaluations required for the approval of new drugs, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require health studies or safety testing of genetically engineered foods. However, independent studies do show that genetic engineering of food crops can lead to the production of toxins, allergens and other substances that may pose health-related risks. In 2011, Canadian researchers reported that 93 percent of pregnant women’s blood and 80 percent of their fetal cord blood samples contained a toxin found in a genetically engineered corn that produces its own pesticide (Bt corn). In 2012, French researchers studied the effects of a GE corn diet on rats over the course of their lifespan, finding that the rats developed tumors and other health problems. The health-related implications of these findings, as well as the findings of many other scientific studies from around the world, have not been properly and fully investigated. Some reports have emphasized that the effects on our health due to consumption of GE foods may be very subtle, and of greatest importance to individuals who are aged, very young or immune system impaired. Without labeling not only is the opportunity for consumers to avoid GE foods denied, but the ability of medical professionals and public health agencies to identify, track and address any unanticipated GE-related health effects is greatly limited. Back to top
How many other countries require labeling of genetically engineered foods?
Over 50 countries including members of the European Union, Japan and China, already label genetically engineered foods. Vermont should be a leader on this important issue here in the United States. Back to top
Where would the labels be?
The initiative simply requires that a notation be added below existing ingredient labels which says that the product is partially produced with genetic engineering. For genetically engineered whole foods that are not packaged, such as GE sweet corn or fresh GE salmon, the front of the package or the store shelf must be labeled. Back to top
Will there be a cost to consumers or food producers?
No, our bill is intended to have no cost impact on consumers or food producers. It will be extremely easy to implement. The bill will simply require that genetically engineered ingredients be disclosed on labels. Cost to food manufacturers will be minimal since companies routinely revise labels on their products. Back to top
What foods would be exempt from labeling under the Act?
The initiative will not require labeling for foods prepared for immediate consumption (for example, food prepared for or at bake sales, restaurants, or salad bars), nor will it apply to animals that have been fed genetically engineered feed, as long as those animals have not themselves been genetically engineered. Back to top
Would the public support something like this?
Definitely. Polls have constantly shown that over 90% of the American public believes that genetically engineered foods should be labeled. Back to top
Who supports the Vermont Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act?
Over 6000 Vermonters, and more than 130 diverse organizations have signed the VT Right to Know GMOs petition in support of GMO labeling. Back to top
How can I help?
Take a look at our GMO Action Center, and share it with your friends! In order to pass this legislation, we need the help and support of all Vermonters. Sign our petition to get involved and learn more about the campaign. Then, contact your legislators and make sure they know where you stand and write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. If you want to do more, email us at vtrighttoknowgmos@gmail.com for more ideas. Back to top
