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You have reached iGreens.org.uk.  In December 2006 we moved to iGreens.org with faster servers and discussion boards.  Click here to follow us.  

I've recently started coming across "GM free zone" or "No GM products here" and similar silly  signs in food stores, restaurants, and even hospital cafeterias.   This mildly annoys me, since I'm perfectly happy to eat food produced from genetically modified crops.   I've started writing to such establishments to let them know that not everyone has a mindless objection to every capitalist invention and the response has occasionally been gratifying.   Many small businessmen are fed up with pandering to their rich "environmentalist" customers whims.  It's one thing to source your chickens from a free-range farm, but trying to ensure your ketchup is made from GM free soya is a meaningless ritual.   Often they are quite cheered to hear from someone with a more sensible view.   Readers who agree, please do the same and feel free to use this text.

Dear ,

I notice that you do not stock genetically modified (GM) food in your restaurant/shop, presumably because you believe that some customers object to it. Maybe they do, but many other people who care about the environment prefer GM food.

GM crops require less chemical pesticides and produce higher yields. Reduced pesticides are good for wildlife, and using less land means more can be returned to a wild state. Cheaper food helps feed the many hungry people in the world. GM food is subject to stringent safety checks and no adverse effects on humans or the wider environment have ever been demonstrated.

Of course you are entitled to niche market yourself to your rich customers in any way you wish. I just wanted you to know that many sensible people think this particular concern is misplaced.

Best wishes

Let iGreens know what sort of response you get.

Jim Thornton, 28 May 2001

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Last modified: September 20, 2006