GE labeling statement by Harry MacCormack—Organic
Farmer and Co-Founder & former Executive Director of Oregon
Tilth
The relationship between food consumers and the farmer-manufacturers
of those foods is one of trust. When that trust is questioned or
fractured, rules or laws are needed. We cannot tolerate an incursion
into this relationship of trust by those who promote the genetic
alteration of grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products.
In Oregon, which has the oldest Organic Labeling
Law, awareness of the problems with genetically altered foods is
becoming more widespread. That an estimated 70% of foods on store
shelves contain genetically engineered (GE) ingredients with no
identifying label makes the public leery. We need to know what is
in our foods—we have the right to know. A GE labeling requirement
is necessary.
As a farmer, I share concerns with consumers regarding
drift from genetically altered pollens. In crops like corn, this
drift is rapidly spreading to all corn across the world. Wheat,
rice, soy, canola—the list of GE crops grows. As growers,
it is difficult to defend ourselves from this outrageous violation
of our sacred seed base.
GE potatoes can contain a pesticide and therefore
be toxic, especially to children. But without labeling, how does
anyone know when they are ingesting these altered foods?
How is it that those of us who try to grow clean,
health-promoting foods in accordance with natural, biological processes
can be so quickly displaced by corporate arrogance? There has been
almost no testing of the effects on humans, animals, or microbial
life of this genetic engineering practice. We can only hope that
a GE labeling requirement will slow down the practice until our
collective knowledge catches up with reason to replace the secrecy
that allows greed yet another victory.
I will vote YES on Measure 27.
Harry MacCormack
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