A Victory for Freedom of Choice

Switzerland Votes for Ban on GMOs

Here is some good news from Switzerland, where the citizens enjoy much greater food safety than in the U.S. Why don't Americans deserve the same level of safety?

The Swiss have voted in favour of a five-year ban on the farming of genetically modified crops in Switzerland. 55.7% of the Swiss approved a five-year long moratorium on banning the use of GMOs in farming. The referendum was held in all 26 cantons on November 27, 2005.

This result reflects the widespread scepticism in Switzerland about the use of GMOs in farming. The result has been welcomed by citizens, scientists, food safety professionals, members of the Swiss government, NGOs, and farmers concerned that the use of GMOs undermines organic production.

Surveys have shown Swiss consumers would not buy GM products.

The EU, which does not contain Switzerland, also has strict regulations concerning GMOs to ensure the safety of human health, animal health and the environment.

Biotechnology corporations had campaigned against the ban, saying the country must accept new developments without scientific testing.

Also see: GM Food Makers Refuse to Disclose Untested Ingredients to Americans http://www.progress.org/2004/gene105.htm Americans Win Disclosure Ruling Against Untested GM Crops http://www.progress.org/2004/gene104.htm A Classic: Foldvary on Genetically Manipulated Food http://www.progress.org/archive/fold148.htm

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