Recall boosts biotech opponents

The discovery of genetically engineered corn not approved for human consumption in Taco Bell taco shells has given new fodder to opponents of biotech foods.

Rep. Dennis Kucinich, (D-OH), sponsor of a bill requiring labeling of foods containing biotech ingredients, said the incident shows that genetically modified (GM) ingredients are not well regulated. In a statement contained in an advocacy newsletter called the Genetically Engineered Food Alert, Kucinich said, “It concerns me and should concern American consumers that this is a glimpse of things to come as genetically engineered products are rushed to store shelves without real mandatory safety testing and labeling programs in place.”

Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA) issued a statement saying the situation suggests that “there may be some improvements needed in the regulatory system.” It said it would work with federal agencies to evaluate what steps might be taken to prevent a similar occurrence.

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