Canadian GMO Labeling Bill Defeated

TORONTO, Ontario--A bill that would have mandated labeling of all foods in Canada containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) was defeated in the Canadian House of Commons 126 to 91. The bill, C-287, was sponsored by Liberal MP Charles Caccia.

According to the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), studies have shown that 90 percent of Canadians say they want mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods. "The actions of our elected officials flies in the face of public interest," said Donna Herringer, president of CHFA (www.chfa.ca). "Mandatory labeling of GE foods is the only way to give Canadians freedom of choice. The CHFA will step up efforts to put public pressure on elected officials until they listen to Canadians."