FFC Supports Greater Transparency In Food Labeling

July 11, 2014

FFC, with other investors, is urging corporations to cease directing corporate funds towards defeating GMO labeling ballot initiatives.  This is part of an ongoing effort to encourage transparency in food labelling.  Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) do not increase agricultural productivity, are unlikely to address poverty and world hunger, and have contributed to crop disease and an epidemic of pesticide resistance. The American public has become increasingly aware of the drawbacks of GMOs. In response, dozens of bills have been proposed nationwide that would require food manufacturers to label genetically modified products as GMOs. Unfortunately, some food companies have spent millions of dollars trying to defeat these initiatives. Opposing GMO labeling is bad for business. Companies that have opposed GMO initiatives have suffered boycotts, negative social media attention, and divestment campaigns. Polls indicate that the overwhelming majority of Americans support mandatory GMO labeling and increasingly, American consumers are avoiding GMO products. FFC believes that using corporate funds to fight against GMO-related legislation, either directly or through trade groups, exposes these companies to unnecessary reputational risk. FFC supports transparency in food labeling and calls on these companies to cease using treasury funds to oppose GMO initiatives. To view the letter, click here