Napa Letter: "I am Voting YES on Proposition 37"

Dear Editor:

I’m not an activist, and I’m not against “corporate America.” I am, however, someone who likes to know what I’m buying and what I’m eating. There is no mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods in the U.S. For this reason, I am voting YES on Proposition 37.

Corporations, such as Monsanto and Dupont, are against this proposition, stating that genetic engineering is fine. Not surprisingly, they either produce GE seeds and/or herbicides that work in conjunction with these seeds. Obviously, the big corporations have a lofty vested interest in protecting their profits.

Unintended effects do occur in life. Who knows what the potential unintended effects may be from genetic manipulation. If these products are safe then what is the harm in labeling them and letting consumers make their own decisions?

Prop. 37 may not be perfect, but its passing will create awareness. Many people do not know about GE food, and people will be shocked to learn how many processed foods contain genetically modified organisms (GMO’s). Labeling gives us a greater opportunity to make informed choices.

For those of you who aren’t against genetically engineered foods, don’t you at least think that others who are concerned have the right to know what they’re buying?  

Cindy Clark, Napa

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