From: Caryn Mandelbaum [caryn@globalexchange.org]
Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2001 7:17 PM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: REQUIRE GMO labeling
Dear Commissioner Henney,

I am terribly disappointed by the proposed Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
regulations that FAIL to require labels or safety tests on genetically 
engineered (GE) food. Clearly, the FDA is more interested in the upkeep
of the corporate profits from the biotech industry than the right to know 
of US citizens. 

I have met on many occassions with engineers of biotechnology who have 
absolutely no problem with the labeling of GMOs because they are confident 
in their science. If the science is secure there should be no reason to conceal
the facts of GMO products. If the science is insecure then these products should
not be permitted on the supermarket shelves or the export containers to any 
human population.

Labeling GE foods would protect the public from potential health effects
that could only be traced if GE foods can be identified. By refusing to
require both labeling and mandatory safety testing of foods, the FDA
puts consumer's health at risk, and ignores the recommendations of the
Biotechnology Consultative Forum, who in December urged the US to
require mandatory labeling of GE foods.

I urge you to reconsider this proposal and insure that GE foods are
subject to pre-market testing and labeling.  We have a right to
make informed decisions about the food we consume.

Sincerely,

Caryn Mandelbaum



--
Caryn Mandelbaum
Cuba Campaigns Co-Coordinator
Global Exchange
caryn@globalexchange.org
1.800.497.1994 *231

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