Environmentally Responsible Investors urge
Yes on 27
There are many documented risks connected with genetic engineering--
human health risks, environmental risks, cultural and community
risks. There are also unknown risks due to the newness of the technology
and the conflicting nature of the information that is available.
As a result, it is essential that genetically engineered foods be
labeled so that consumers can choose whether or not to purchase
these modified foods.
Measure 27 provides much needed transparency. Note
that Measure 27 does not prevent the sale of genetically engineered
foods and crops—it simply requires that consumers be informed.
Increased Chances of Allergic Reactions.
The transfer of genes from one organism to another, via genetic
engineering, has tremendous implications for individuals with allergies
who, without labeling, can inadvertently eat a food containing a
gene to which they are allergic.
Risks to the Organic Industry: Organic
farming, the processing of organic foods and products, and the sale
of these products is a growing industry in Oregon. Genetically modified
crops present numerous risks to the organic industry, including
the risk that pests will become resistant to organic farmers’
methods and the risk of genetic pollution whereby genetically modified
crops could contaminate organic crops.
Risks to Wildlife / Biodiversity and ecosystem
integrity: Some genetically engineered crops have been
shown to be lethal to certain organisms and thus represent a clear
threat to biodiversity. Other genetically engineered crops have
been found to release toxins into the soil.
Risks to the Developing World: There
are significant concerns associated with companies engaged in genetic
engineering, particularly in the way they deal with indigenous cultures
and developing nations.
Support your right to know. Give
consumers the ability to choose whether to support genetic engineering
given the risks to human health, the local economy, the global environment,
and the developing world.
Ralph Bloemers
Duke Castle
Sarah Cleveland
Tobey Fitch
Carsten Henningsen
Troy Horton
Jane Kolinsky
Shelly McFarland
Peter Samson
Dan Lerch-Walters
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