Canadians have the right to know if the food they are choosing has been genetically engineered or includes genetically engineered (genetically modified organisms or GMOs) ingredients. Over 20 years of polling consistently shows that Canadians want mandatory labelling of genetically engineered foods. A 2016 Health Canada study on this topic found that 78% wanted mandatory labelling but 76% of Canadian MPs voted against Bill C-291 in 2017 that proposed mandatory labelling.

As a registered dietitian, I empower people to understand food labels to help them make informed food choices. The reasons for wanting to know about genetically engineered food may include safety, environmental, ethical, food sovereignty (against corporate control of patented seeds) or religious concerns.

Sixty-four countries around the world, including Australia, Japan, Brazil, Russia, China and all of the countries in the European Union, have mandatory labelling laws for genetically modified food. The United States will have “disclosure” (information on labels) in place by 2022.

The Canadian government definition of genetically engineered food “refers to techniques by which the genetic material of an organism is changed in a way that does not occur naturally by multiplication and/or natural recombination.” Many consumers understand this as GMO or genetically modified organisms.

Help me to urge the Government of Canada through the Hon. Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health and Hon. Marie Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to make labelling of genetically engineered food (GMOs) mandatory in Canada.

With your support, we can show our government what is important to us and create the necessary change in food labelling laws. I need you, your voice and your support. Please sign and share this petition to bring mandatory labelling of genetically engineered food into law in Canada!

The 2019 federal Canadian election is an ideal time to discuss this issue with candidates.

Use the #MandatoryGMOlabel when sharing or discussing this campaign on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!