GoodFood World Position Statement on Genetically Engineered or Modified Organisms (GMOs) in the Food System
From the beginning of time, food has been the foundation of culture throughout the world and often the seat of wealth and prosperity. However, food system dynamics are characteristically influenced by external conditions such as climate change, the availability of water, civil and political unrest, the plight of farm workers, and now, major corporate enterprise combined with world trade and the use of sophisticated technology to manipulate the genes of plants and animals.
The expanding use of genetically engineered crops is one major element of the current mechanistic model that pretends to feed the world, but is in effect eliminating the resiliency in naturally evolved, organic systems.
At GoodFood World, we strive to counteract many of the industrial influences now prevalent in the production, processing, distribution, and sale of our food because we believe these corporate-driven intrusions are scientifically unfounded, motivated by capitalization, degrading to the environment, and threatening to human health.
Alternatively, we believe in the biodiversity of traditional agriculture and traditional breeding technologies, which are openly and freely shared, and which exclude plants and animals that have been genetically engineered or modified.
We also believe in the need to protect the environment from the deleterious impacts of industrial agriculture such as the loss of seed and crop diversity, the development of herbicide-resistant weeds and pesticide-adapted insects, the destruction of soil fertility and structure, and the elimination of water recharge and quality.
We believe in the right of farm workers, food handlers, and consumers to be safe from exposure to toxic chemicals applied to crops genetically modified to withstand ever-increasing amounts of chemicals.
We believe in the sanctity of life, the humane treatment of animals, and that no part of any plant or animal should be patented.
Therefore, we believe in the thorough labeling of all food containing genetically engineered ingredients; artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives; and manufactured enrichments and enhancements. Consumers have the right to know what is in their food, to choose natural over synthetic products, and to avoid the purchase of food that has been genetically modified.
From this position, we will continue to educate the public about good food and the presence of genetic engineering in the food supply. GoodFood World provides free access to published documents that promote organic, transitional, and “low-chemical-input” food primarily grown and distributed through local and regional food systems.
(Updated: February 1, 2015)