This U.S. State Is Leading The Charge And Taking A Stand Against GMO’s!

The fight over the labeling of GMOs in this country is getting interesting! Although America lags far behind countries like Europe, Australia and Russia who already require GMO labeling, the state of Vermont is blazing a trail. In fact, last spring Vermont became the first state to pass a bill that will require the labeling of all foods containing GMOS (except dairy, meat, alcohol and restaurant food) beginning July 1, 2016.

Yay, Vermont!

Those standing to gain from the sale of GMOS foods will not go down with a fight. In fact, our food industry organizations have already filed a lawsuit against the state of Vermont stating that it “challenged the law’s constitutionality.” Among the plaintiffs are the Grocery Manufacturer’s Association, the Snack Food Administration, the International Dairy Food Association and the National Association of Manufacturers.

Fortunately, on April 27, the food industry received its first blow as U.S. District Court Judge Christina Reiss ruled against the Grocery Manufacturers Association.

According to this article from U.S. News entitled “Vermont Law on GMO Labels Stands,” Reiss stated,

“The safety of food products, the protection of the environment, and the accommodation of religious beliefs and practices are all quintessential governmental interests, as is the State's desire 'to promote informed consumer decision-making,'"

Currently, this means that Vermont is still set to label GMOs.  It is not the end of the story since this case is likely go to trial. In the meantime, I think it’s important to voice your opinion and get involved!

One way is to sign up at this link:

https://www.organicconsumers.org/bytes/organic-bytes-470-if-you-dont-take-any-other-action-week-please-take-one-these)

Learn how to take action against what is being called the DARK Act. This bill, HR 1599, “The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act” could result in the inaccurate labeling of foods! Monsanto and the Grocery Manufacturers Association are highly motivated to pass the DARK Act. Find out how you can help prevent their victory.

Secondly, begin to follow the lead of everyday activists like singer/songwriter Neil Young.  According to an article by Rolling Stone entitled, “Neil Young Boycotts Starbucks Over GMO Lawsuit," Young is boycotting Starbucks due to their stance against Vermont’s labeling laws.  He notes this is due to  Starbucks close affiliation with the Grocery Manufacturers Association.  He states:

"I used to line up and get my latte everyday, but yesterday was my last one," Young wrote. "Starbucks has teamed up with Monsanto to sue Vermont, and stop accurate food labeling."

and goes on to say….

"Monsanto might not care what we think -- but as a public-facing company, Starbucks does," Young wrote. "If we can generate enough attention, we can push Starbucks to withdraw its support for the lawsuit, and then pressure other companies to do the same."

To become inspired and informed,  read more about his efforts here:

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/neil-young-boycotts-starbucks-over-gmo-lawsuit-20141115)

My take on this:

The labeling GMOs is an incredibly important cause. It can have far reaching and dramatic affects on the American food industry. I urge you to get involved today! Though Young is taking a stand against one company who belongs to the GMA, it is important to remember that there are approximately 300 other companies including Pepsi, Coke, Kraft, Kellogg's and General Mills.  

Let’s show our support for the labeling of GMOs - and Vermont!  Ditch those GMO-laden processed foods and support those companies who make a true effort to produce high quality, GMO-free products. To view the full list of trustworthy companies, please click here:

([url=http://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/search-participating-products/browse-products-by-brand/]http://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/search-participating-products/browse-products-by-brand/[/url]).  

You can also visit the Non-GMO Project Verified website to find a list of non-GMO products here:

([url=http://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/search-participating-products/]http://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/search-participating-products/[/url]).

Perhaps, the most important thing you can do today is continue on your paleo journey, and vote with your dollar by purchasing organic produce and animal products. Don’t forget to make an effort to support those restaurants using high quality, organic ingredients, too! We need to prioritize transparency, quality and integrity.  We can do this every time we make good choices when purchasing what we are selecting and eating.

Here’s to knowing what’s in our food…