Debate Over How GMO Labeling Will Impact Shoppers
DENVER (CBS4)- Voters in Colorado will decide in November if genetically-modified food should have special labeling.
The group pushing for the labels said they don't want a ban on GMO food, just a label to distinguish it from other food.
Opponents believe it won't be that simple.
"We don't know if they're safe or not safe. There's been no independent research studies validating one way or the other and a lot of studies are coming out saying you should be concerned," said "Right to Know Colorado" spokesman Larry Cooper.
Right to Know Colorado is backing Proposition 105, which would determine that genetically-modified food would have special labeling.
Of the 86,000 signatures needed to get the measure on the ballot, the grassroots group ended up with 125,000 signatures.
Opponents of GMO labeling are urging voters to read the fine print.
Sara Froelich believes Proposition 105 doesn't provide consumers with accurate or reliable information.
"There are so many exemptions. Two-thirds of all products in stores would be exempt even if they have GMO ingredients," said Froelich. "Like cheese that does have GMO in it, it would be exempt but products like sugar, which have zero GMOs would have to be labeled."
The group "No on Prop 105 Coalition" believes the law would end up driving up costs to farmers, small businesses and consumers' grocery bills.
Right to Know Colorado said the cost will be minimal, maybe $8 a month per family.
"It's about our kids and our future. And why is it that we don't know what we're feeding our kids," said Cooper.
If voters approve Prop 105, it will go into effect in 2016.
