But Biotech Industry Waged Largest PR Campaign in
Oregon History
Oregon - A new national poll released today indicates that 88.5%
of U.S. consumers support mandatory labels on genetically engineered
(GE) food. The poll comes one day before Oregon's hotly contested
referendum on GE food labeling is decided. The campaign season has
been characterized by an unprecedented multi-million-dollar PR blitz
by the biotechnology industry.
"Whatever the outcome of Measure 27, this poll gives a clear
indication of the American sentiment towards genetically engineered
food," said Joseph Mendelson, Legal Director for the Center
for Food Safety.
The polling released today was performed by American Viewpoint
polling service, headed by republican pollster Linda DiVall and
was commissioned by the Center for Food Safety. It shows broad,
nationwide support for mandatory labels and pre-market safety testing
for genetically engineered foods.
The biotechnology industry has raised over $5 million dollars -
almost completely from out-of-state and even out-of-country sources
- to wage the "No on Measure 27" campaign in Oregon, making
it the largest financial public relations campaign on a state ballot
initiative in Oregon's history.
The "No on Measure 27" campaign has repeatedly claimed
that the proposal would cost the average Oregon family $550 each
year. However, a recent independent study at Oregon State estimated
costs of only $4-$10 per person ($16-$40 per four-person family)
per year.
"The question now is if $5 million of biotechnology spin in
one month is able to undercut the facts," said Mel Bankoff,
member of the Executive Team of the "Yes on 27" campaign.
"But the issue is still very much alive - nationwide, the public
just isn't buying. This is not the end only the beginning in both
Oregon and nationwide."
To see the poll results, click HERE (PDF)
The Center for Food Safety is a nonprofit public interest and environmental
advocacy organization that works to address the impacts of our food
production system on human health, animal welfare and the environment.
The organization achieves its goals through grassroots campaigns,
public education, media outreach, and litigation.
For more information, contact: Center for Food Safety, 660 Pennsylvania
Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20003
1-800-600-6664
www.centerforfoodsafety.org
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