Ashland Co-Op to remove all GMO products Off of Shelves

The Ashland Co-Op (one of the best health food stores I've been to), a local health food store in Southern Oregon, has decided to remove all products that might be questionable as to whether or not it's Genetically modified. Most genetically engineered foods comes in the form of corn, soy, canola, and cottonseed products. There are estimates of up to 70% of processed foods containing GMO ingredients. More and more shoppers, especially in Oregon, are demanding that their local supermarkets order a wider variety of organic food, because by definition organic food is non-GMO.

Most people want labeling for GMO ingredients but have no way of being able to effectively avoid it. Back in 2002, a state ballot measure was created to label foods with GMO in it, but was defeated when Monsanto Corporation poured millions of dollars in advertising in the state.

Oregon consumers seem to be on top of its game in at least recognizing the problem with GMO food. People end up voting with their dollars by avoiding conventionally grown produce and eating healthier organic food.

Physicians for Social Responsibility or PSR and other groups are fighting for federal laws that mandate labeling of GMO food.

Here in Eugene, we have several health food stores including Market Of Choice, The Kiva, Capella's, and Sundance Foods that offer a wide range of organic produce and foods, as well as food that was grown or manufactured in Oregon. The Saturday Market in downtown Eugene is also a great way to connect with and support local farmers who grow organic food. Another great resource if you're new to Oregon is the Oregon Farmers market Directory