The clash between consumers and companies over food labels for modified products rages on. Washington state could soon be considering a change in regulations that would make GMO labels mandatory, and in the wake of the so-called “Monsanto Protection Act” being signed, it signals another major food industry contention. Proper food labels are clearly an issue for our times, with processed ingredients of all kinds repeatedly questioned. However, a recent Forbes piece takes the position of Devil’s advocate somewhat by arguing why the legislation being considered is “misleading” and has the potential to be damaging.
Author Glenn Lammi outlines aspects of the proposed initiative, I-522, which he asserts are “seriously misleading” in the notion that GMOs are dangerous as a matter of fact. Furthermore, the piece suggests that I-522 could actually serve to backfire through its allowance of a label that simply says that foods “may be” genetically modified.
“Is there any doubt that the risks of litigation and public demonization will compel all producers in certain categories of foods where GMO ingredients are ubiquitous to simply put that ‘maybe’ label on their products?” Lammi purports. “If so many products are labeled with this “maybe,” what useful information does that provide to consumers?”
The particularities of Washington law could put this motion to citizens this Fall if no action is taken by officials.
Whatever the outcome of this case, it is clear that labeling a product matters, especially when said products are intended for human consumption. A Primera LX900 color label printer can be utilized to create labels easily and quickly, and incorporating one into a company’s business infrastructure can save time when it comes to updating in response to legislative changes.
Leave a Reply