7 chapters across the catalog
President Obama signed the "DARK Act" (Deny Americans the Right to Know), which preempts state-level GMO labeling laws like those in Vermont. The federal law allows for QR codes or other non-explicit labeling methods instead of clear text on packaging. Critics argue the legislation is a "fake" labeling bill designed to protect corporate interests while appearing to address consumer concerns.
Protests against Monsanto and genetically modified foods took place in over 50 countries and 250 U.S. cities, including major rallies in Seattle and Vancouver. Demonstrators are calling for mandatory labeling of GMO products and independent testing of seeds, which Monsanto currently restricts. The hosts note that mainstream cable news provided minimal coverage of these widespread grassroots events.
Marijuana Legalization, California Proposition 37 Labeling Defeat
Washington and Colorado voters approved the legalization of recreational marijuana, while California voters rejected Proposition 37, which would have mandated GMO labeling. Critics suggest heavy spending by corporate interests and the Koch brothers influenced the California results.
California Proposition 37, GMO Labeling Opposition
California's Proposition 37, a mandatory GMO labeling initiative, faces heavy opposition from major agricultural and food processing companies. The "No on 37" campaign is funded by Monsanto, DuPont, Bayer, and the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA). Opponents argue the law would increase grocery bills and provide misleading health information, while supporters claim consumers have a right to know if their food contains genetically modified organisms.
Dennis Kucinich, GMO Labeling Bill, Monsanto Political Influence
Representative Dennis Kucinich addressed the House of Representatives regarding the FDA's failure to test GMOs for toxicity or allergenicity since 1992. Kucinich introduced H.R. 3553, a national labeling bill, and criticized Monsanto's influence over the political process. The hosts discuss the potential for a GMO labeling initiative on the California ballot to break the industry's grip on food transparency.
GMO Labeling Battle, Organic Food Sustainability
A significant political battle is emerging over the mandatory labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products. While some argue for transparency, others claim labeling is misleading since most processed foods already contain GMOs. The discussion also touches on the history of BST hormones in milk and the marketing of "biological" food in Europe.
Sharon Long, Monsanto Influence in Obama Administration
Former Monsanto board member Sharon Long has joined the Obama administration as a science advisor. Her appointment is seen as a move to prevent the mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods, a policy Obama previously supported. Monsanto's history of suing radio hosts and influencing agricultural practices in Iraq is cited as evidence of their extensive political reach.
