Here at Clover Stornetta and Clover Organic Farms, we strongly believe consumers have the right to know what their food contains and how it is produced. We are completely in support of truth in labeling and through the years have pioneered efforts to this end.
Clover always has and always will make decisions based on what you, the consumer, care about most. In 1994 Clover Stornetta Farms led the dairy industry in clearly labeling our packaging “From cows not treated with the growth hormone rBST.” In 2000 Clover became the first dairy in the nation to be certified by the American Humane Association for the exemplary treatment of our animals.
Clover supports the good intentions of California’s Proposition 37 requiring the mandatory labeling of genetically engineered foods by July 1, 2014. However, while admirable in its intent, there are several problems with Prop 37 as it is written. Some of these include:
- Manufacturers could feel obligated to label products “May be Partially Produced with Genetic Engineering” in order to avoid potential lawsuits when in fact their products do not contain GMOs. This statement does not provide consumers the information they are seeking.
- Prop 37 states “A raw agricultural commodity or food derived therefrom that has been grown, raised or produced without the knowing and intentional use of genetically engineered seed or food” are exempt. This means growers could plead ignorance to the presence of GMOs to avoid costly labeling and/or lawsuits, again leading to misinformation.
- Prop 37 states “food consisting entirely of, or derived entirely from, an animal that has not itself been genetically engineered, regardless of whether such animal has been fed or injected with any genetically engineered food or any drug that has been produced through means of genetic engineering” is exempt from labeling. We believe this could be misleading to consumers.
In addition to the items outlined above, there are other potential issues that may occur if the proposition passes. We believe that consumer education on the intricacies of this issue is of utmost importance.
To read Proposition 37 in its entirety, please visit: http://www.lao.ca.gov/ballot/2012/37_11_2012.aspx
Clover places high priority on our practices of sustainability, the humane treatment of animals and educating consumers on where their food comes from while creating exceptional quality milk and dairy products. Enjoy Clover in good conscience and good health!
Source: Clover Stornetta