Labelling GMOs

Do you know what is in your food? GMOs are found extensively in many food products. Chances are you have already eaten GMOs.

Soya is by far the world's most cultivated GM plant; it is followed by corn, cotton and canola. The United States, Argentina, Canada and China, in that order, are the biggest soya producers. Although these crops provide food primarily for animals, a small percentage also lands on your plate!

	Canola.

Different countries have adopted different approaches to the touchy topic of labelling GMOs.

The principle of precaution - In Europe, the labelling of GMOs is compulsory, and caution prevails. The basis of the principle of precaution is, "when in doubt, don’t do it!" GMO products are labelled, and it is left to consumers to make their choice.

The principle of substantial equivalence - In Canada and the United States, the labelling of GMOs is optional. If a GMO is essentially equivalent to a non-GMO, then why label it? This is the principle of substantial equivalence.