Initiative 522 would require raw agricultural products that are genetically engineered (popularly called GMOs), and processed foods with such ingredients, to be labeled beginning July 1, 2015, for sale at retail.
There would be exemptions for alcoholic beverages, food sold in restaurants and milk and meat from animals that ate genetically engineered feed.
Proponents say consumers have a right to know what is in their food. Some believe GMOs are bad for human health and/or the environment, and are concerned that most genetically engineered food to date has been created to resist herbicides such as Monsanto’s Roundup or to fight off pests. Major financial backers include Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps, Mercola.com Health Resources, the Organic Consumer Fund and the Center for Food Safety.
Opponents say the measure’s exemptions make it confusing and inconsistent, and that it would drive up food prices if consumers rejected foods with the GMO label. They say a label is unnecessary, because genetically engineered food is safe to eat, and that the new law would be publicly policed, essentially creating a “trial lawyer’s dream.” Their top financial backers include Monsanto, DuPont Pioneer and the Grocery Manufacturers Association.
