In another attack on distributors of genetically engineered (GE) foods, Greenpeace and Clean Water Action protested Shaw’s and Star Market last week for refusing to remove GE products from their shelves. This is an ongoing argument that lacks enough scientific evidence to be considered sound.
In response to environmental activists, the supermarket chains, which are owned by the same parent company, have said they will not consider any action until they receive a ruling from the Food and Drug Administration clearly explaining the possible dangers of GE products. However, the activists protest that these GE foods will have unfortunate side-effects on the evolution of plants and their animal predators. While it is necessary to raise awareness about the potential dangers of GE products, it is unfair to attack companies without proper scientific documentation.
Companies like Shaw’s and Star Market should not be protested for their current actions. They are waiting for the FDA to make an informed, legal ruling, and until then, they are in their right to continue to distribute their products.
To this point, Star and Shaw’s customers have not complained enough to warrant any immediate change. The companies are making strong business decisions in continuing to provide their customers with the products they want. Furthermore, Star and Shaw’s also offer their customers a variety of clearly labeled organic products. Thus, consumers have the option to avoid purchasing any GE products.
If Greenpeace and other activist groups would like to make more of an impact on their targeted companies, they must revise their strategy. It is important to go through the legislative process to set a focused agenda, including holding public discussions to educate consumers on the issues. In doing so, these groups would gain legitimacy and would spread their message to consumers as well as companies distributing the GE products.
Until the FDA comes out with a full report on the effects of GE products, there is absolutely no reason for Shaw’s and Star Market to remove GE products from circulation. Unless there are specific dangers involved, the public should be allowed make up its own mind about which foods to purchase and consume.
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