Published with permission of Michael Macfarland, Ellsworth, Maine
From The Ellsworth American., 14 August 2003

In response to "Let Farmers Decide," (The Ellsworth American., July 31) did you ever notice that the only people who seem to be touting genetic engineering in our food chain are the ones who will profit from it?

Every article I read that is in favor of genetically modified organisms are written by people in the industry. Since Douglas Johnson PhD, executive director of the Maine Biotechnology Information Bureau, has invited farmers to decide, I'd like to have a say.

The fact is, there are so many facts out there, some more true than others, that most people don't know who or what to believe. A smoldering distrust of the USDA leaves the claims of safety to ring hollow.

The GE people say it's safe, they say it's profitable, they say everyone wins. Are they sure? If this is true, then why won't many European countries buy GE crops from the U.S.? Despite pressure for our State Department, these countries require proof of safety before they expose their populations to unproven food supplies.

We have a growing system that works, and given a proper choice, I think most people will opt out of GE foods. The trouble is, these products are being forced on us with neither our knowledge nor consent.

Does this seem right to you? Were you given the right to "decide"?

There is a solution, and that is proper labeling. Give folks a choice, let them decide what to eat and not eat. The GE people can continue their reign of propaganda. And if they can convince people to eat it, fine. But to sneak these products into the food chain without people's knowledge is immoral and unconscionable.

Michael Macfarland
Ellsworth