In late January, Seward Co-op participated in “Label Day at the Capitol” with local nonprofit organization Right To Know MN (RTK-MN).

RTK-MN is a campaign started by concerned citizens to make the labeling of GMOs the law in Minnesota. On Monday, Jan. 26, a bill was introduced in both the MN House (H.F. 351) and the Senate (S.F. 335) relating to commerce, to provide consumer protection and to require disclosure of genetically modified food. Many co-op shoppers may find the bill an interesting read, in particular the “purpose” and “findings” sections. It requires labeling of food products, stopping short of labeling seed and animals fed genetically modified seed.

Label Day at the Capitol was an opportunity for citizen activism—for RTK-MN’s coalition of farmers, health advocates and families to meet with their elected representatives and voice their support for the bill. One criticism of state labeling advocacy is that bills and ballot initiatives are a patchwork effort in which different areas of the country create different regulations for GMO labeling. In fact, the language of Minnesota’s bill was written (and revised and revised) while referring to materials and strategy from other states that have successfully passed legislation. In particular, Vermont and Oregon, where a ballot initiative was very close to passing last fall. Each statewide campaign will build on the strength and lessons of those before, becoming robust enough to withstand legal challenge, and ultimately, bring us to federal labeling rules. Currently, 66 other countries require GMO labeling.

Those involved with RTK-MN come to the labeling conversation from a unique angle. Some have environmental concerns in mind, while others are concerned about adverse health effects or safety of the food supply. Labeling is a bipartisan issue, and exclusionary to no one. After all, everyone is an eater and consumer. Right To Know MN and Seward Co-op call the campaign a “big tent” under which all are welcome. Check out Right To Know MN’s action center here and get involved. Let’s label GMOs!