I feel the Herald was irresponsible for printing the column about genetically modified organisms by Michael Gerson (Opinion, May 18). I know controversy sells papers, but there should be some sort of filtering process before something is printed.
I was intrigued because of the headline of the column, because I was thinking it would point the finger at biotech companies for the carnage they’ve unleashed upon the environment and our food in the way of nasty toxins and gene alteration with unknown and untested consequences.
The column was filled with untruths. For example, to address just one, the claim that the use of GMOs has decreased herbicide use is not true. In fact, the use of herbicides has increased at least 527 million pounds since these GMOs were introduced into our food supply just 16 years ago. The column, instead of attacking Monsanto and its ilk, attacked a brave and forthright company, Chipotle, for removing GMOs from its menus and making this public.
Ever since, the mainstream media has made Chipotle out to be the enemy when, in fact, the target of these accusations should be companies such as Monsanto. It has a goal to someday soon control 100 percent of the seed supply, either by its seed concoctions or cross-contamination.
It’s happening. I am tired of being called anti-science and someone who “embraces pseudoscience.” I have studied GMOs for decades. I am personally against them because of their false claims and failed promises, but Chipotle’s aim was simply to let people know what is in their food and create transparency in their menu choices. We have the right to know what is in our food, pro-GMO or not.
Gerson’s column is part of a huge pro-GMO campaign happening because biotech can feel the tide turning against it. It’s about time. Thanks for your other related pieces, such as the one about the carcinogenic properties of Roundup. The demand for organic food is skyrocketing. We are finally waking up. I feel, someday, GMOs will prove to have been one of the worst environmental and health catastrophes ever.
Julie Meadows
Durango
