The Connecticut Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the leading advocate of the dietetic profession in the state, would like to thank our state legislators for passing legislation that requires the labeling of food products that contain a genetically modified organism (GMO).
It may be some time before the law can be implemented, due to a provision that requires several other states to pass a similar law. However, it is a very important step in the right direction of allowing individuals to know the exact ingredients that are included in their foods and if those ingredients have been altered in any way. Just as products are required to list a type of additive or the amount of calories, they should be required to list whether they contain a GMO.
As registered dietitians, we believe that this information will provide consumers with the knowledge needed for better decisions about what they will eat and the effects on their health. Registered dietitians help translate science into terms people can understand and provide medically proven nutritional advice to the public. What cannot be lost in translation is that the labeling of an ingredient does not necessarily mean it is “bad.” Labels not only show what is less healthful, but also what will be beneficial. Food labels are a great tool to help educate people about food and nutrition. By simply looking at a label you can see if the product is a great source of fiber or calcium for health, as well as if it is high in sodium or saturated fat for prevention of disease.
Registered dietitians look at evidence based research regarding food science, food safety and food technology. Connecticut Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has no official stance at this time on the health consequences, either positive or negative, of GMOs and believes further study is required. But, we do believe in giving the public the right to know in order to help educate consumers in making personal health decisions. We thank our legislators and Gov. Dannel Malloy for their leadership on this issue.
Judy Prager
New Fairfield
President, Connecticut Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics