People will be voting on whether genetically modified foods should be labeled in the state. Previously, in California this proposal did not pass, due to misinformation in the media and millions of dollars pumped into the anti labeling campaign. Who would spend so much money on an anti labeling campaign, you ask? None other than the corporations who use the most GMO's in their products. The same corporations that are funding the anti labeling campaign in Washington state. Although they have attempted to contribute into a "secret" fund to keep their identities quiet, It was found that this is breaking some laws in regards to transparency in campaign finance. I found a couple of nice charts that break down some of the largest contributors in Washington state. It turns out that Coca Cola, Pepsi and Nestle are the biggest contributors at over a million dollars each. Mercola Chart of 522 Contributions Overall, over 7 and a half MILLION dollars has been donated to the anti labeling campaign. My question is, IF they are so proud of these GMO ingredients, why are they fighting so hard against labeling? People have a right to know that the food they are feeding their children has been tampered with. I'm not talking about splicing 2 different tomato plants to make one that is heartier or has a better shape and texture. The Institute for Responsible Technology explains it best :
What is a GMO?
A GMO (genetically modified organism) is the result of a laboratory process where genes from the DNA of one species are extracted and artificially forced into the genes of an unrelated plant or animal. The foreign genes may come from bacteria, viruses, insects, animals or even humans. Because this involves the transfer of genes, GMOs are also known as "transgenic" organisms.Institute for Responsible Technology.Educate
They have a great site for educating yourself on GMO's and what foods you can find them in. Although it is much shorter to list what foods you will NOT find them in.
The bottom line is that genetically modified foods have been around for such a short time. We do not know the complications that will arise from consuming them. The only unbiased and independent studies that have been done on them blame GMO consumption for everything from allergies and obesity to cancerous tumors. It seems like our government has given companies like Monsanto free reign to alter our food supply any way they see fit. Why shouldn't they? Many of our government officials have come directly from the ranks of the Monsanto corporation and our now in decision making positions. Can you say, "conflict of interest"?
Educate yourself and your family on the facts about GMO's. Buy LOCAL, ORGANIC crops and meat. I cannot stress how important it is to support your local organic farmers and to grow your own (heirloom and organic vegetables, if you can)
Keep this quote in mind, It is quite relevant as we fight this hurculean battle against GMO's:
"He who controls the food supply, controls the people". ~ Henry Kissinger
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| Info graphic credit: http://politicalvelcraft.org |
