GMO in the Know – September 20th, 2013

A wrap-up of GMO-related headlines and developments.

Op-Ed: Consumers Have a Right to This Information

New Hampshire legislators are deliberating House Bill 660, a bill requiring labeling of foods containing genetically engineered ingredients. In an Op-Ed for the Concord Monitor, Just Label It chairman Gary Hirshberg sheds light on why the right-to-know movement is spreading, and why New Hampshire residents should care.

Are Junk Food Corporations Hiding Behind Lobbyists to Stop GE Food Labeling in Washington State?

The Grocery Manufacturers Association encompasses some of the nation’s largest food makers, such as Kellogg’s General Mills and Pepsico, and has a long history of serving as a convenient front for their members on controversial issues. This year in Washington State, GMA has already donated more than it did in California against Prop 37 ($2.2 million), despite this fight requiring fewer resources.

Non-GMO Foods Will Account for 30% of U.S. Food, Beverage Sales in 2017

U.S. retail sales of non-GMO foods and beverages are projected to increase at an annual growth rate of 12.9% over the next five years, and could represent 30% of the market in 2017. Should GMO labeling become mandatory, non-GMO sales could account for up to 40% of the market in 2017.

USDA Will Not Take Action in Case of GMO Alfalfa

The detection of a small amount of genetically modified material in a Washington state farmer’s non-GMO alfalfa crop constitutes a “commercial issue” only and does not warrant any government action, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said on Tuesday.