Background: The topic of labeling food products containing genetically modified ingredients (GMOs) has become increasingly heated. 2014 saw hotly contested (and expensive) labeling initiatives at the local and state levels, and discussions occurred in congress.
Demand for GMO-free products is growing, and that has led to a shift toward voluntary labeling efforts. Different manufacturers, organizations and agencies issue seals or stamps that “verify” that products are GMO-free. However, the standards used for verification are not uniform. Confusion abounds.
The story: The New York Times Stephanie Strom has written a terrific and comprehensive overview piece that alleviates much of the confusion surrounding GMO labeling. There’s even an interactive quiz included with the article.
While the labeling situation is confusing, consumers are clear on a couple of things: they want labeled products, and they indicate they are willing to pay more for foods with labels indicating products are GMO-free.
Per the New York Times:
“…in poll after poll, consumers have overwhelmingly said they want labels on foods that contain genetically modified ingredients. Most recently, 66 percent of respondents to an Associated Press-GfK poll last month said they wanted foods containing genetically modified ingredients to be labeled. Only 7 percent did not want such labeling.”
A must-read piece.