Since the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the food system, numerous human health and environmental degradation concerns have been raised and confidence in the safety of GMO crops has been limited. Your ability to make informed decisions when purchasing food products has also been restricted due to the difficulty of determining whether foods contain GMOs.
The Co-op recognizes that many consumers expect our store to be free of GMOs. The Co-op is not 100% GMO free, despite our overwhelming emphasis on organic products. Until mandatory labeling is implemented it would be irresponsible for our store to claim any percentage of GMO free products. Also, due to our commitment to carry specialty products (gluten free, vegan, ethnic, fair trade, etc.), we carry products that do not currently have a non-GMO verified or certified organic equivalent. Our owners and customers with special dietary restrictions are important to us and despite our small size we pride ourselves in our wide and varied special needs selection.
No simple solutions exist of how to best deal with GMOs, but working together we can help each other and our community navigate to a healthy future. The Co-op has aligned with the NCGA, the Non-GMO Project, and the SFTA to further open a forthright dialogue with the food industry regarding the importance of organic agriculture and federally mandated labeling of GMOs.
Steps you can take to avoid GMOs:
If you want to completely eliminate GMOs from your diet the best option is to only buy Certified Organic or Non-GMO Project verified products. Outside of these certifications avoiding products which contain high risk ingredients is an effective strategy.
Using your consumer power by investing your food dollars in non-GMO products sends a clear message to food companies. If sufficient numbers of U.S. shoppers avoid GM ingredients, then food companies won’t use them. (visit ResponsibleTechnology.org to learn more)
Download a Non-GMO Shopping Guide from NonGMOShoppingGuide.com to see the growing list of Non-GMO products available. A smart phone application is also available.
Contact your government representatives to inform them of your stance on GMOs. These are the people to contact:
REP. DOUG LAMALFA
Phone: (202) 225-3076
Fax: (202) 226-0852
SEN. DIANNE FEINSTEIN
Phone: (202) 224-3841
Fax: (202) 224-3954
SEN. BARBARA BOXER
Phone: (202) 224-3553
Fax: (202) 224-0454