Hampton to Host Forum on GMOs

Submitted release 

State Rep. John K. Hampton (D-Simsbury) will host a forum this week dealing with genetically modified foods (GMO’s) and their effect on the consumer. GMOs are products that have been genetically modified at the cellular level to increase yields and resist disease.   Long term effects of GMOs on consumers have not been determined.

"People deserve the opportunity to make purchase decisions based on basic information about their food's origins.” said Rep. Hampton.   “This forum will answer questions and provide access to information for concerned consumers.”

Hampton will be joined by State Representative Phil Miller, 36th Assembly District (Essex, Chester, Deep River and Haddam), Vice Chairman of the legislature’s Public Health Committee as well as Elaine Titus and Beth Beisel of GMO Free CT. http://gmofreect.org

Connecticut is the first state to pass a GMO labeling law. This law, which will go into effect when triggered by passage of similar legislation in other states, requires that certain foods that contain GMOs be labeled as such.

Connecticut’s first-in-the-nation law requires genetically-engineered foods to be labeled “Produced with Genetic Engineering” and unpackaged produce would be labeled on their retail shelf or bin. There is an exemption for locally grown foods at roadside stands as well as for restaurants.  The legislation sets in place several safeguards so that Connecticut won’t stand alone as the only state to require labeling, potentially affecting local businesses and food prices.   

For the labeling requirements to take effect, four states with a combined population of more than 20 million – one a neighboring state — must pass similar legislation. Many other states across the country are at various stages of considering such labeling laws.  It is hoped that Connecticut’s action will encourage legislators in neighboring states to pass such legislation soon.