In Europe, we have strict regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) – for our safety and transparency. Genetically modified foods are foods that have their DNA changed via genetic engineering - a way that does not occur naturally.
But now, big chemical companies have convinced the EU Commission to stop checking and labelling some GMOs as such. [1, 2] They're trying to increase their profits by getting the “GMO” label off their products. [3] More of us would end up buying their products, without knowing that we’re eating GM food.
As a result, farmers would start using more patented seeds that rely on toxic pesticides. Many new GM plants are resistant to pesticides, such as those that are “Roundup ready”. This could put the fate of our entire food system directly into the hands of Bayer-Monsanto and other big corporations. Deregulating these GMOs would be a huge step backward for farming communities, people and the environment.
We need our national governments to stand up for safe, healthy and transparent food. Only a few do at the moment. That’s why it’s so important for us to send a strong message now to all our governments and the EU Commission that we want them to prioritise safety and transparency over corporate profits.
