The Issues Surrounding Mandatory GMO Labeling: What You Need To Know

- June 11th, 2:00-3:30 pm (EDT) -

Presented by the Council for
Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST)

Connecticut's governor signed a GMO labeling law last year that needed passage of similar bills in nearby states to become effective. Vermont just passed a controversial GMO labeling law that will likely serve as the "trigger" to activate Connecticut's statute. Maine has a similar law on the books and a special interest group called "Oregon Right To Know" has begun gathering signatures to try to force a statewide referendum mandating the labeling of all foods containing GMOs.

Although California's first anti-GMO attempt failed, their legislators, emboldened by Vermont's move, are working hard to prepare a new bill. Washington State's efforts failed too, but forces in that state are working to revive the effort. Special interest groups or legislators in more than 30 states reportedly are contemplating GMO labeling laws. How widespread is the movement? Google "GMO labeling" and you'll get more than 8,000,000 returns.

The Grocery Manufacturers Association, sensing the tide is rising quickly, is considering filing suit contesting Vermont law and more legal action by other groups is imminent. The federal government, stung by the states taking the lead in the anti-GMO movement, is considering creating a national law. 

THE PROBLEM
The truth about GMOs is often covered up by an avalanche of unfounded rumors and fears. To help clarify the science behind GMOs, the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) has just published “The Potential Impacts of Mandatory Labeling for Genetically Engineered Food in the United States.”

This controversial new paper attempts to focus the public discussion on the science behind genetic modification. Is it the panacea claimed by its proponents or the precursor of a whole generation of "Frankenfoods", destined to poison the planet?

TO FIND THE ANSWERS
CAST has developed a special webinar, brought to you by Food Seminars International, to tell the truth about GMOs. The featured speakers will be two of the authors of the paper who will explain the science, law, and economic facts behind this critical issue. An open question and answer session will allow everyone to actively participate.

Topics covered include:  

• The prevalence of GE agriculture nationally and globally  

• Current legislative efforts

• Common arguments for and against labeling 

• The science of food safety  

• Economic implications of mandatory labeling of food containing GE

• Current labeling law in the United States

• Legal implications of mandatory labeling of food containing GE

• Trade implications of mandatory labeling of food containing GE 

The program:

Each presenter will speak for about 30 minutes with a slide presentation followed by Q&A from attendees.  (Attendees may send questions into Food Seminars International in advance of the presentation.)

Presenter: Thomas P. Redick, Esq:

Mr. Redick represents clients in the high-technology and agricultural biotechnology industry sectors with issues relating to regulatory approval, liability avoidance, and compliance.  He has represented U.S. soybean grower associations on biotech crop issues since 1998. In 2010-2011, he served as the 40th President CAST. He is co-author of Thwarting Consumer Choice: The Laws and Flaws of GM Labeling (2010, AEI Press).

Presenter: Dr. Alison L. Van Eenennaam:

Dr. Van Eenennaam is an Extension Specialist in Animal Genomics and Biotechnology in the Department of Animal Science at the University of California at Davis. She received both an MS in Animal Science and a PhD in Genetics from UC Davis.  Her public outreach focuses on the development of science-based information outlining the uses of biotechnologies in livestock production systems, including the controversial biotechnologies of genetic engineering and cloning. She served as a member (2005-2009) of the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Advisory Committee on Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture.  In 2010 she was the recipient of the American Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities National Award for Excellence in Extension. 

Registration is free but limited to 1,000.  Register now; spaces will be taken quickly.

If you are unable to attend, an audio/visual recording of the webinar will be available for viewing afterward.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS FREE WEBINAR