Friday, November 18, 2011

Feeding Frenzy?

“Chemicals known to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm may be present in food sold here.” So begins the disclaimer on boxes of Happy Meals sold in California. McDonalds is hedging its bets lest someone decide to sue. “This puts a whole new spin on junk food,” commented a Facebook friend. Eating has become dangerous. These thoughts were on my mind as I watched a sunset feeding frenzy at the marina. The powerful chemical companies operate a revolving door for former employees who often obtain jobs in government. How can a former Monsanto employee defend the best interests of American citizens? He can’t. When genetically-modified alfalfa got fast-tracked, the risk rose of organic milk being compromised. Aberrations like genetically-modified salmon are being hoisted on us against our will. Did you know a USDA grant is allowing AquaBounty Technologies to stay afloat, while Congress tries to figure out whether to approve it or not? And, should it win approval, no labels are planned on packaging. Yesterday I sent you all to Lentil Breakdown and asked everyone to think about how GMOs affect Wellfleetians. We are all in this together, that's how. Not the case in Europe. Join the movement to get all adulterated food labeled. Tell your friends and family. Discuss GMOs at Thanksgiving. And, sign this easy petition to label food so I will not feel obliged to move back to France, a country with food safety rules that are much more rigorous. Thanks!