Labels fix nothing

Initiative 522 is a solution in search of a problem. Existing food labels already give consumers a way to choose foods made without genetically engineered ingredients.

Supermarkets now contain thousands of organic food options from produce to milk to crackers. And many places in Washington have co-ops that sell organic products exclusively. All certified organic food is, by definition, free of GE ingredients. Additionally, many companies now choose to label and market their products as GE-free.

Consumers want choices when they go shopping. All of this gives consumers who choose to avoid GE foods ample options for doing so.

I-522 is not needed but it would increase costs for consumers and taxpayers by millions. Consumers already have a choice. Vote no on I-522 in November.

Joe Olmstead

Chattaroy