GMO labeling: ‘This is the biggest food fight in the nation … and it’s not going to go away’

First, we checked out some education sessions, kicking off with a lively event hosted by Environmental Working Group government affairs VP Scott Faber on one of the hottest issues of the day: GMO labeling.

The presenters (Stonyfield Farm chairman Gary Hirshberg; Yes on I-522 campaign manager Delana Jones; National Co-operative Grocers Association CEO Robynn Schrader; and Dr Bronner’s Magic Soaps president David Bronner) had a very receptive audience (the applause was loud, and frequent), although not everyone was convinced by their arguments (see below).

For a detailed report on the event, and one crop scientist's response to some of the claims made during it, check out FoodNavigator-USA next week, but in the meantime, here are a few choice quotes:

Gary Hirshberg​: “[The defeat of GMO labeling initiatives in] California and Washington were actually victories; we’re building consumer awareness. This is the biggest food fight in the nation and maybe the history of the nation and it’s not going to go away…​

Delana Jones​: “If you buy organics, 80% voted YES ​[to Washington State GMO labeling initiative 522]. If you never buy organics, 80% voted NO…​

“We’re not anti-science, but you should absolutely know how your food is grown.”​

Jeffrey Smith, Institute for Responsible Technology​ (from the audience): “The focus ​[of anti-GMO activists] should not just be about getting the votes ​[on GMO labeling initiatives]. We should be encouraging consumers to buy non-GMO. Once we get to a tipping point the food companies will say we’re bleeding market share, we need to get rid of GMOs.”​