Oppose the USDA's pro-GMO propaganda

The government has proposed a national label for genetically engineered food. Unfortunately, it falls FAR short.

Dear MoveOn member,

The government is allowing companies to hide information behind URLs and QR codes, instead of disclosing that food is genetically engineered on the label itself. There is a proposed GMO labeling system, but it is confusing, and the government might exempt gene-editing techniques and highly refined ingredients like oils and sugars from GMO labeling.¹ If these foods are exempted, the labels become worthless.

Join me in calling on the USDA to require clear labels for all GMOs!

The government has proposed a national label for genetically engineered food. Unfortunately, it falls FAR short.

The proposed labels use the term "bioengineered," even though "GMO" and "genetically engineered" are already widely established and used by consumers. And the possible logo, a smiling sun, provides even more spin. Worse yet, some foods might be exempted.

 Tell the USDA to require clear labels for GMOs!

I have read about the proposed National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (Docket No. AMS-TM-17-0050), and I strongly urge the USDA to implement the following improvements: 

First, there must be NO exemption for highly refined products. Doing so would directly undermine this standard by creating a massive loophole for the majority of products containing genetically engineered ingredients.

Second, the term "bioengineered" is not well-established and recognized by consumers. Please use "genetically engineered," "GE," or "GMO" instead to reduce unnecessary consumer confusion.

Third, the sample logos are inappropriate and suggest a USDA preference for genetically engineered products over organic and other food. The smile, sun, and scenic logos should be replaced by neutral designs that strictly indicate that the product is genetically engineered or contains genetically engineered ingredients.

Join me in calling on the USDA to require clear labels for all GMOs!

Fourth, ensure that newer forms of genetic engineering, including gene editing, are covered by this standard.

Fifth, the proposed compliance date of January 1, 2020, is more than enough time for companies to transition to the new labeling standards. Do not include the unreasonable and unnecessary delay to January 1, 2022, in your final rule.

Finally, please reject QR codes, website URLs, text message numbers, and any other alternatives to clear, on-package labels. Your own 2017 study shows how ineffective and discriminatory these alternatives are.

Join me in calling on the USDA to adopt these suggestions in order to strengthen the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard.

Click here to add your name to this petition, and then pass it along to your friends.

Thanks!

—Alexander Rony, SierraRise

Source:

1. "USDA Unveils Prototypes For GMO Food Labels, And They're ... Confusing," NPR, May 19, 2018
https://act.moveon.org/go/40639?t=18&akid=208631%2E10220574%2EX2cH-Y

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